Berea: The Little College That Could | Cheryl Nixon

Unlike other college rankings that rate institutions for their “prestige” and selectivity, the Washington Monthly’s College Guide and Rankings scrutinizes schools for what really counts – their commitments to public service, research and social mobility for their students. Founded by an abolitionist minister as the first inter-racial, coeducational college in the South, tiny Berea College in Kentucky – with about 1,550 students – is an exemplar of this ideal. That’s why it’s ranked number one in the Monthly’s 2025 College Guide. Fully 99 percent of its students are low- and moderate-income students eligible for Pell Grants. They pay no tuition and graduate nearly debt-free. The vast majority ofgraduates remain in the region, contributing to its economy and growth. Monthly Editor in Chief Paul Glastris spoke with Berea President Cheryl Nixon about the college’s philosophy, approach and formula for student success. Chapters00:00 Celebrating Berea's Ranking02:50 Understanding Berea College's Unique Model06:17 Student Employment and Work College Model08:32 Demographics and Community Impact10:50 Academic Rigor and Career Preparation13:20 Financial Accessibility and Student Debt19:28 Berea's Endowment and Funding Model22:09 Campus Life and Community Engagement24:52 Admissions Process and Student Criteria26:26 Dr. Nixon's Journey and Educational Philosophy29:24 Berea's Lessons for Higher Education Today