It wasn't long ago that the University of Wyoming's claim to fame was being called one of the “biggest party schools in America.” My, how things have changed. Last month, UW was listed 17th among Forbes.com's “America's Best Colleges.” Additionally, Forbes placed UW fifth in the category of “America's Best College Buys.”The Forbes listings followed inclusion on the Princeton Review's list of the top 371 colleges.None of the listings, while subjective to be sure, should be scoffed at. While in Wyoming there is only one public university to choose from — and that makes our state unique — it's important to know that UW offers a strong and affordable academic program. Wyoming people have long been staunch supporters of their lone university. In recent years, private donations, along with unprecedented support from the state Legislature, have funded expansion and opportunity at UW. And the university is entering its 23rd consecutive year of increased external funding for faculty, research scientists and administrative personnel.According to Bill Gern, UW vice president for research and economic development, "This is an exciting time for the university. We are celebrating yet another record year in external funding, and I think it's clear that this recognition ... illustrates that we can — and do — successfully compete against other universities for major research funding."The recent improvements to the aesthetic of UW are just icing on the cake. It's nice to know that Wyoming college students aren't just “settling” by making the choice to move to Laramie — rather, they're making a sound, smart investment in their futures.

It wasn't long ago that the University of Wyoming's claim to fame was being called one of the “biggest party schools in America.” My, how things have changed.

Last month, UW was listed 17th among Forbes.com's “America's Best Colleges.” Additionally, Forbes placed UW fifth in the category of “America's Best College Buys.”

The Forbes listings followed inclusion on the Princeton Review's list of the top 371 colleges.

None of the listings, while subjective to be sure, should be scoffed at. While in Wyoming there is only one public university to choose from — and that makes our state unique — it's important to know that UW offers a strong and affordable academic program.

Wyoming people have long been staunch supporters of their lone university. In recent years, private donations, along with unprecedented support from the state Legislature, have funded expansion and opportunity at UW. And the university is entering its 23rd consecutive year of increased external funding for faculty, research scientists and administrative personnel.

According to Bill Gern, UW vice president for research and economic development, "This is an exciting time for the university. We are celebrating yet another record year in external funding, and I think it's clear that this recognition ... illustrates that we can — and do — successfully compete against other universities for major research funding."

The recent improvements to the aesthetic of UW are just icing on the cake.

It's nice to know that Wyoming college students aren't just “settling” by making the choice to move to Laramie — rather, they're making a sound, smart investment in their futures.