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FSU Touts Rise In National Rankings Among Public Universities

Ryan Dailey
/
WFSU-FM

Florida State University is now ranked 18th in the nation among public universities. The school has jumped 25 spots in the U.S. News and World Report rankings over the past five years.

With Governor Ron DeSantis and school leadership in attendance, University President John Thrasher touted the school’s new ranking Monday morning.

“We’ve been able to hire more faculty, offer smaller classes, and reduce the student-faculty ratio. As a result, our students are achieving at the highest levels and are graduating, governor, in four years. And I know that’s important to you, and it’s important to our chancellor.”

Provost Sally McRorie says currently there are fewer than 20 students in half of classes the university offers. McRorie is celebrating 25 years at the University this semester.

“This rise in the rankings reflects our focus on student success, which has always been a hallmark of Florida State University,” McRorie said.

The University of Florida also saw a bump in its ranking, rising to No. 7 among public schools.

Florida A&M University rose two spots among nationally-ranked historically black colleges and universities, landing at No. 7.

DeSantis applauded FSU’s rise in the rankings, and said it’s good for business in the state.

“The importance goes beyond just providing opportunity for our students – as governor, it really helps me to attract more investment in Florida if I can point to the great job the universities are doing,” DeSantis said.

Evan Steinberg, FSU’s student body president, also was on hand for the announcement.

“This dramatic rise in our national rankings and our national reputation over the past several years, didn’t just happen,” Steinberg said. “It is the direct result of many people, including fellow students, student leaders and former student body presidents, who have and will continue to collaborate across campus and engage in initiatives to ensure student success remains strong.”

Ryan Dailey is a reporter/producer for WFSU/Florida Public Radio. After graduating from Florida State University, Ryan went into print journalism working for the Tallahassee Democrat for five years. At the Democrat, he worked as a copy editor, general assignment and K-12 education reporter.