September 14, 2001

Loyola in top 15

_Loyola ranked sixth in the category of best universities ­ Master's in the South, formerly known as regional universities, in the 15th annual America's Best Colleges issue and guidebook published by U.S. News & World Report, moving up to sixth place after placing seventh in last year's ranking.

For the last 11 years, Loyola has retained its position among the top 15 of 123 regional schools in the South. In commenting on this year's ranking, University President Bernard P. Knoth, S.J., said, "I am delighted with the results of this year's ranking. Our advancement in this ranking is a reflection of our remarkable student body and dedicated faculty and staff, all of whom are committed to academic excellence and scholarship. This year, the incoming freshman class of 2005 is comprised of 865 students who represent the largest and most talented class in the history of Loyola. The class of 2005 represents 41 states, plus Puerto Rico and 17 countries. One third are from the greater New Orleans metropolitan region, and 57 percent are from out of state. We are happy to welcome them aboard."

In addition to ranking among the top regional universities in the South, Loyola moved up a notch to rank 11th in the Southern region in the "Great Schools at Great Prices" category. "I am also proud of Loyola's ranking in the best value category. This is a result of our efforts to contain the cost of higher education while providing a first-class liberal arts education," added Knoth.