[verbatim release] JACKSON, Miss.—Millsaps College is the only college or university in the state named to the 2008-2009 Colleges of Distinction guidebook based on the college's dedication to four key areas—engaged students both outside and inside the classroom, great teaching by expert professors, a vibrant community both on and off campus and successful, productive graduates.

The recognition marks the sixth consecutive year for Millsaps to be named one of approximately 240 colleges and universities included in Colleges of Distinction, a college guide that profiles some of America's best choices in higher education.

"It's quite an honor for Millsaps to be named among this group of distinctive colleges and universities," said Dr. Frances Lucas, president of Millsaps College. "Millsaps has a strong tradition of educating in a holistic way. Our students are engaged from the moment they arrive on campus. The extraordinary support that our national-caliber faculty provides gives them the tools and perspectives to open any door."

The goal of Colleges of Distinction is to provide students, counselors and parents with information about schools that take a holistic approach to admissions, consistently excel in providing undergraduate education and have a truly national reputation.

"This supports what we already know – that we have bright motivated students who, with the tremendous support of our faculty, are highly engaged in their educational experience and subsequently graduate as well-rounded, successful citizens who positively impact their communities, their nation and the world," said Mathew Cox, dean of enrollment management at Millsaps College.

Colleges included in the guidebook were selected by a panel of high school college counselors, college admissions professionals and college administrators who evaluated each institution based on the total undergraduate experience. A national publication of Student Horizons, Inc., the guidebook is the result of a group of concerned parents, educators and admissions professionals who hope to improve the current state of the college admissions process by providing consumers with the best possible information on higher education.

Recently, Millsaps has also been named to several prestigious lists including The Princeton Review's "The Best 368 Colleges" and The Chronicle of Higher Education's "Great Colleges to Work For." Other notable recognitions include being ranked No. 29 by the Centre for College Affordability & Productivity among all liberal arts colleges and universities in the country and being named to the annual President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.