Saint Elizabeth University Named to Newsweek’s Inaugural “America’s Best Colleges for Women” List

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MORRISTOWN, NJ— In a milestone moment during Women’s History Month, Saint Elizabeth University (SEU) has been recognized in Newsweek’s inaugural America’s Best Colleges for Women 2026 ranking, a national distinction honoring institutions that demonstrate a meaningful commitment to women’s success.

The new ranking, developed in partnership with Gender Fair, evaluates colleges across four critical categories: leadership, pay and policies, safety and opportunity. Drawing on federally reported data and state-level reproductive health policy information from the Center for Reproductive Rights, the list offers prospective students and families a new lens through which to evaluate higher education institutions.

For more than a century, Saint Elizabeth University has championed the advancement of women, first as a women’s college and now as a coeducational institution rooted in a mission of equity, leadership and service. The recognition affirms the university’s longstanding commitment to creating pathways where women can lead, innovate and thrive.

“Women’s History Month is about honoring progress while continuing to build opportunity,” said President Gary B. Crosby, Ph.D. “This recognition reinforces the values Saint Elizabeth has embodied since its founding, empowering women to find their voice and lead with purpose.”

The impact of that mission can be seen in the accomplishments of its alumni.

Among them is Elaine Pozycki, BA Psychology ’01, founder of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and numerous nonprofit initiatives. After the tragic loss of her son to opioid addiction, Pozycki dedicated her life to advocacy, prevention and public awareness, becoming one of New Jersey’s most visible voices in the fight against substance abuse.

Another standout graduate, Vonda Kirby Pardo ’06, serves as Product Counsel at Google, where she oversees legal strategy for AI products, one of the most consequential and rapidly evolving sectors in technology. Her leadership reflects the global reach and influence of Saint Elizabeth graduates.

The university also celebrates Beth Renyi ‘69, a longtime leader and champion of Saint Elizabeth University who served on the Board of Trustees and later as Chair before being named Trustee Emerita. She co-chaired the Annunciation Center Capital Campaign and established the Theology Wing in memory of her parents. Renyi also supports organizations serving vulnerable women and children and serves as a bereavement ministry facilitator at her parish.

Dr. Crosby continued:

“At Saint Elizabeth, we are intentional about creating an environment where women are prepared not only to participate in the workforce, but to shape it. From leadership development to academic excellence and a culture rooted in equity and service, we are committed to ensuring that our students graduate with the confidence, skills and support to make a meaningful impact in their communities and professions.”

As institutions nationwide continue to evaluate how best to support women’s advancement in higher education, Saint Elizabeth University’s inclusion in Newsweek’s inaugural ranking underscores its continued relevance and leadership in preparing women for meaningful careers and impact.

For prospective students and families, the message is clear. When women are empowered with opportunity, mentorship and equitable access, they do more than succeed. They shape industries, communities and the future.

To learn more about Saint Elizabeth University, visit www.steu.edu.

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