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Rio’s Healthcare Degree Programs Named Among Best in America

University of Rio Grande has been recognized in the 2024 Best Healthcare Degree Programs Ranking in America, recently released by Research.com. The university ranking platform was designed to assist students in making informed educational choices.

The rankings were compiled based on a deep analysis of numerous data points gathered from reliable sources such as Peterson, IPEDS, and College ScoreCard. These rankings consider a wide array of degree programs and regions, focusing on key factors such as overall quality, affordability, popularity, and the time required to complete a degree.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition. This award highlights the dedication and hard work of our faculty, staff, and students,” said Ryan Smith, University of Rio Grande’s President. “This achievement reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare education, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities.”

Rio continues to make strides in its healthcare programs. Earlier this month, the Holzer School of Nursing’s Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program was granted continuing accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for the next eight years. This recognition reflects the program's ongoing commitment to providing high-quality nursing education that prepares students for success in their nursing careers.

This fall, it was announced that all 2024 Rio graduates in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) and Radiologic Technology programs passed their credentialing exams on the first attempt. The 100% success rate in Radiologic Technology beats the 75% benchmark set by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Additionally, the success rate for DMS exams vary nationally between 59-74%, while Rio grads posted a perfect pass rate across the four categories the students took.

Learn more about the recognition and all of Rio’s healthcare offerings.

Rio to Host 5th Annual Hope Fest

An evening of hope, healing, and connection awaits at the 5th Annual Hope Fest, taking place Thursday, September 25 from 4–8 p.m. at the University of Rio Grande. This free community event brings together residents from across the region in a shared commitment to mental wellness and suicide prevention.

6/27/25

Rio Names Stepp New Director of Economic Development

University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College is proud to announce Taylor Stepp as its new Director of Economic Development and Center for Entrepreneurship. Stepp brings with him over a decade of strategic experience in site selection, economic development, business consulting, and public policy.

5/19/25

Rio Slashes Tuition Rates for Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Address Workforce Shortage

In a move to combat the growing national shortage of healthcare professionals, University of Rio Grande has announced a significant reduction in tuition fees for its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

5/6/25

Rio Student Honored as Member of the 2025 All-Ohio Academic Team

Ohio’s community colleges are capping off their celebration of Community College Month by recognizing a new class of academic all-stars.

Fifty-two students have been picked for the 2025 All-Ohio Academic Team, an honor that recognizes them for their excellence in academics, leadership, and community service. College faculty, staff, and other campus leaders nominated these top-performing students for this honor.

Rio student Cooper Jeffers-Flinner has been named among the 2025 All-Ohio Academic Team.

4/22/25

Community Joins Rio for a Night of Celebration and Giving, Raising Over $35,000 for Students

On April 10, community members came together with University of Rio Grande students, faculty, staff, and alumni to raise over $35,000 for the Rio Fund. These funds support essential student financial aid, cutting-edge technology, campus enhancements, and transformative educational opportunities.

4/21/25

A Jake of All Trades

Incoming freshmen at the University of Rio Grande all receive the same advice at some point during their first few weeks on campus: make the most of your time here. Jake Bapst (’75) took those words literally. He’s still here today.

4/11/25

Rio Grande’s Pike Center to Host Open House and Ribbon Cutting

Rio Grande Community College will host a ribbon cutting and open house event at its new Pike Center on Thursday, May 1. The open house will begin at 3 pm, with the ribbon cutting ceremony at 3:30 pm. Afterwards, the public is invited to enjoy refreshments and take a tour of the facility.

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Media Inquiries

For all media related inquiries, please contact our Marketing and Communications Department.

Students, faculty, and staff initiating contact with the news media will do so in coordination with the Director of Marketing.

Media wishing to visit Rio should contact the Director of Marketing and be accompanied by designated staff during their visit.

Marketing and Communications Department is responsible for writing and distributing press releases, excluding those related to athletic events, for which occasional feature stories about athletes may be distributed as requested by the athletic director or sports information director.

Information on pending or current litigation, and matters involving human resources, will not be discussed publicly without the prior approval of the University President.

Nothing in this policy affects faculty & staff members' responsibilities for scholarly activities and personal involvement in community activities. Individual employees retain the right to express personal views, making it clear they do so as individuals and not as representatives of Rio.

Mike McCorkle

Director of Marketing