Submitted photo Davis & Elkins College has been honored by U.S. News & World Report.

ELKINS — Davis & Elkins College has once again statistically proven its commitment to the mission statement of the institution, being ranked in a tie for the top higher education institution in West Virginia in the U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Colleges guide for Regional Colleges South.

This continues the trend of D&E’s accomplishments established in previous years, where the College also held the highest rank within the division among those from the Mountain State.

D&E secured the twenty-seventh ranking overall in the highly competitive Regional Colleges South division, which includes more than 120 institutions across twelve recognized U.S. states and territories.

In addition, D&E was recognized for its efforts in advancing social mobility, earning the 15th overall spot in the region and top spot for the state. This category highlights colleges known for helping economically disadvantaged students enroll and graduate, ultimately leading to positive changes in income, occupation and education.

“It is an incredible honor to receive this ranking from such a renowned organization,” says Senior Director of Enrollment Management & Student Success Angie Scott. “Davis & Elkins College continues to make a significant impact on students through a shared commitment to education and student success among administration, faculty, and staff. It is wonderful to be able to provide our students access to quality education at an affordable price. The legacy of this College and our journey toward preparing and inspiring students for success and thoughtful engagement continues!”

The U.S. News rankings evaluate colleges and universities based on measures of academic quality, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, and other key indicators of student success.

The social mobility category specifically highlights schools that are successful in enrolling and graduating large proportions of students awarded Pell Grants.

“National recognition by U.S. News & World Report affirms what students and alumni already know, namely that D&E provides a high-quality education in a nurturing environment,” says D&E President Chris A. Wood. “Our rank of #27 among ‘Regional Colleges in the South’ and our top ranking in Social Mobility among West Virginia colleges is a tribute to the dedicated faculty and staff at this gem of a higher education institution.”