Purchase Celebrates Making Top 10 Public Schools by U.S News & World Report

By Sophia Pallozzi

Purchase College students, administration, faculty and staff gather outside the clock tower to enjoy refreshments and converse with each other. (Photo by Sophia Pallozzi)

Outside the Main Plaza, a celebration led by Purchase College President Michael Steiper and the athletics department was held to celebrate Purchase being ranked number eight in top public schools by U.S News & World Report on Wednesday, Oct. 1 at 11:30 a.m. Purchase was also named number 131 in national liberal arts colleges, tied with University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia. 

A table set up with breakfast foods including donuts and non-alcoholic sparkling cider was served to partakers and passing students served by dining hall staff who encouraged students to eat and celebrate. Janitorial staff were also present enjoying the celebration.

Osbourne Hoilett and dining worker served donuts and sparkling cider. (Photo by Sophia Pallozzi)

The Purchase College Athletic Department prompted the event with an Instagram post by the @purchasecollegeathletics page stating “Dress to impress in your blue and orange Panther gear! Teams with the most representation will receive Panther Points!” Baseball, basketball, soccer, and cross country were some of the teams who came in the classic blue and orange apparel.

The space was filled with chatter, joy, and excitement for Purchases success. “This is a great way to integrate athletics into school events,” said Hardeepak “Nick” Malvai, head coach of women’s soccer, “it brings all people together to meet the president as well.”

Perseus the Panther and President Michael Steiper holding sparkling cider while smiling for the camera. (Photo by Sophia Pallozzi)

President Steiper was present at the event holding a glass of non-alcoholic sparkling cider while engaging in conversation with students and frequently stopping for pictures. “I think the event is going well,” said Steiper, “it’s awesome to see so many people and Perseus the Panther come together.”

Sofia Chambon, a sophomore acting major said “It’s great to meet people from other majors. It’s a testament to how other programs are growing at Purchase.” According to the Princeton Review, Purchase is the 391st best college in the nation. It also named Purchase the best Northeastern college, top green college for the sustainability commitment, and best college theaters. Hollywood Reporter named Purchase the top 25 acting programs in the world for 2025.