Nazareth named to Newsweek’s inaugural America’s Best Colleges for Women 2026
Nazareth University is one of the top colleges nationwide where women can thrive, lead, and build a successful future. Newsweek ranks Nazareth in the top 10% nationally (and number 17 in New York state) on its inaugural list of America’s Best Colleges for Women 2026 — for both students and employees.
Newsweek partnered with Gender Fair to compile the America’s Best Colleges for Women list. Gender Fair is an independent organization that evaluates institutions through the lens of gender equity — recognizing top U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting women students, faculty, and staff.
Nazareth’s performance was particularly strong in leadership and safety, two of the four categories evaluated based on federal data and independent research:
- Leadership: Percentage of women in senior academic and administrative roles.
- Pay and Policies: Commitment to gender pay equity and family-friendly policies.
- Safety: Campus safety records and security measures.
- Opportunity: Student success, career readiness, and academic opportunities, including in STEM and the arts.
"Being recognized by Newsweek as one of the best colleges for women is a testament to Nazareth University’s long-standing dedication to empowering women as scholars, innovators, and changemakers," said Beth Paul, president of Nazareth University. "Our founders, the Sisters of St. Joseph — who were all incredibly accomplished women themselves — established Nazareth’s inclusive environment more than 100 years ago. This continues today as women students, faculty, and staff are empowered to thrive personally and professionally.”
Contact
Julie Long | Chief PR Officer | jlong2@naz.edu | (585) 389-2456 | (585) 781-8186 (cell)
Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.
Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.
