AIC Earns Second Consecutive U.S. News Recognition for Social Mobility Access

AIC Ranks in the Top Fourth Nationally in the US News Social Mobility Category

SPRINGFIELD, MA – For the second year in a row, American International College (AIC) has achieved recognition from U.S. News & World Report as a top performer in social mobility within the National Universities category. AIC’s 2024 ranking at ninety-three positions the College in the top fourth nationwide, among the top six in Massachusetts, and the leader in Western Massachusetts in this category.

Social mobility is one of the areas evaluated for excellence by U.S. News to help students and families identify colleges that align best with their needs. This category assesses how well schools graduate economically disadvantaged students, a demographic the publication says faces greater challenges in completing their college education. By factoring in graduation rates of Pell-awarded and first-generation students in their rankings, the report highlights institutions like AIC that excel in fostering social mobility.

AIC President Hubert Benitez, DDS, PhD, refers to the ranking as a testament to the College’s ongoing commitment to ensuring access to higher education.

“AIC, and its faculty and staff, understand that earning a college degree is vital in increasing and achieving social mobility,” said College President Hubert Benitez, DDS, PhD. “For this reason, AIC continues to strive to offer a high-quality education at an affordable cost, leading to a successful career path. In doing so, it is committed to helping every student, despite their background, to succeed.”

Why does college matter for social mobility? According to research conducted by the Hamilton Project published by the Brookings Institution, higher education plays a key role in providing opportunities for disadvantaged Americans to transform their economic circumstances. In an era marked by increasing inequality and limited social mobility, enhancing access to education holds the potential to promote equality of opportunity for all.

“Today, students who attend higher education institutions come from diverse backgrounds, and the landscape shows vast social and economic disparities,” added Benitez. “Despite inherent obstacles, AIC is keeping true to its commitment to prepare and serve lower-income students, and it continues to take steps towards bridging the gaps, focusing on being an institution where access, opportunity, equity, and belonging are defining characteristics.”

As AIC continues its mission of educating and empowering the next generation, the College remains committed to advancing social mobility to ensure a brighter future is attainable for every aspiring student.