Whitman College ranked as best liberal arts college in the Pacific Northwest

In its annual "Best Colleges" rankings release, U.S. News and World Report awarded Whitman College an overall ranking of 40 among the nation's liberal arts colleges. Released in September, this year's ranking is on par with the college's previous performances: Whitman earned spot 37 in 2014 and 41 in 2013.

"We are proud to be continually recognized as one of our country's top liberal arts colleges," said Whitman College President Dr. Kathleen M. Murray. She credits the college's high retention and graduation rates-which heavily influence a college's overall ranking-to Whitman faculty and staff members. "Our small class sizes allow for high levels of faculty-student interaction that is both rigorous and supportive."

Whitman reported an 87 percent graduation rate last year and retained 94 percent of its first years, an indicator of student satisfaction. Whitman also ranked high when it comes to reputation among high school counselors.

Viewed by region, the rankings reveal Whitman College as the top liberal arts college in the Pacific Northwest. Oregon's Willamette University also made the list, ranking 67. Portland's Lewis and Clark College and Seattle's University of Puget Sound tied for 72. Portland's Reed College ranked 93.

The U.S. News and World Report ranking is one of many accolades Whitman College has received. The college is continually recognized as a "Best Value College" by The Princeton Review and a top college by Washington Monthly. A complete list of current rankings can be found here.