Gonzaga sends most students to Peace Corps for its size

Gonzaga University produced more Peace Corps volunteers than any other small college in America for the third year in a row.

Also topping the list in their size categories were the University of Washington and Western Washington University, marking the second time in three years the state swept all three rankings.

“Gonzaga graduates are committed to making an impact on the world – and daily work toward a world of peace, justice and greater understanding among people,” GU President Thayne McCulloh said in prepared remarks. “We are proud to receive this recognition on behalf of our worldwide alumni community, and are grateful for the opportunities the Peace Corps provides.”

Last year, Gonzaga had 20 undergraduate students serving overseas with the Peace Corps, the most of any small college or university. It brought to 330 the total number of GU students who have volunteered with the Peace Corps.

Helen Lowman, the associate director for Peace Corps volunteer and recruitment, is scheduled to tour the Gonzaga campus on March 2.

Meanwhile, UW reclaimed its spot atop the large colleges and universities category with 72 undergraduate students joining the Peace Corps last year. In Bellingham, WWU led all medium-size colleges and universities with 47.

Other colleges and universities across the Pacific Northwest making the list include: University of Idaho, 18 students; University of Puget Sound, 16; Willamette University, 11; Seattle Pacific University, 10; University of Portland, The Evergreen State College, Lewis and Clark College and Seattle University, all with nine students.