SNHU Recognized as a Top Employer in Higher Ed, Leader in Innovation

Manchester, N.H. - Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) has once again been recognized as a top employer in higher education and a regional leader in innovation. This month, U.S. News and World Report announced it ranks SNHU among the “Most Innovative” universities in the North. SNHU was also recognized as a top employer in higher education for the 18th consecutive year as part of the Great Colleges to Work For^® program. SNHU is among 76 institutions to be recognized and the only institution to make the Great Colleges to Work For^® list every year since the program began in 2008.

“I’m delighted that SNHU has once again been recognized as a ‘Great College to Work For’, a reflection of our people-first culture and the talented teams who bring our mission to life each day,” said Lisa Marsh Ryerson, President and CEO, SNHU. “This honor is especially meaningful because it is shaped by employee voices. We know that culture doesn’t happen by chance. It’s nurtured through care, connection and listening. We will continue to prioritize what matters most to our people, from belonging and flexibility to equitable career advancement. It's inspiring to work alongside such a dynamic team, all focused on shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for higher education.”

As one of the largest employers in the Granite State, SNHU is the only university in New Hampshire to be recognized by the Great Colleges to Work For^® program and the only institution in New England to make Honor Roll this year. This marks the 15th consecutive year SNHU has received the prestigious Honor Roll status, scoring well across multiple categories including Mission & Pride, Confidence in Senior Leadership, and Professional Development.

The survey results are based on a two-part assessment process: an institution questionnaire that captures employment data and workplace policies from each institution, and a survey administered to faculty, administrators, and professional support staff. The primary factor in deciding whether an institution received recognition was employee feedback.

All full-time SNHU employees were invited to participate in the survey. Based on the top responses, employees believe that SNHU is a place where people feel supported, inspired and connected to the university’s mission. Employees also celebrated the camaraderie of their teams, strong benefits, an inclusive culture, and flexibility and work/life balance.

ModernThink LLC, a research and consulting leader in workplace issues administered the survey and analyzed this year's results.

“In a time of unprecedented challenges for higher education, these institutions have demonstrated remarkable unity,” said Richard K. Boyer, Chief Culture Strategist, ModernThink. “From faculty and staff to administrators and facilities teams, everyone plays a vital role in building workplaces where people feel supported and valued. Great workplaces do not happen by accident—they are the result of intentional choices and courageous leadership. These institutions are leading by example.”

The "Most Innovative Schools" category from U.S. News solely relies on a peer assessment survey completed by college presidents, provosts and admission deans - who are asked to nominate institutions "that are making the most innovative improvements in terms of curriculum, faculty, students, campus life, technology or facilities." SNHU has consistently been among the top 5 “Most Innovative" universities in the northeast region every year since the rankings began.

Siobhan Lopez is a former journalist, who is now the director of media relations at Southern New Hampshire University.