NEVADA, Mo. — Cottey College, a women’s college in Vernon County, has once again been named one of the top 10 Regional Colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, marking almost a decade on the list.

In the 2026 Best Colleges Rankings released this week, Cottey earned the No. 9 spot in the Midwest Region.

The college also received high marks in several categories: No. 2 Best Value School, No. 3 in Social Mobility, and a tie for No. 2 in Undergraduate Teaching.

“I am thrilled to see Cottey recognized once again among the best in the Midwest,” Cottey College President Stefanie D. Niles said in a press release.

Niles also highlighted the significance of the recognition in undergraduate teaching.

“Ranking No. 2 in this category reflects the exceptional dedication of our faculty,

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