U.S. News and World Report names Florida the “Best State for Higher Education”

U.S. News and World Report named Florida the “Best State for Higher Education,” recognizing the state’s significant achievements in areas including graduation rates, low debt at graduation, and tuition and fees.
Governor Rick Scott said, “I want all students to have access to a higher education at an affordable price, which is why we have been focused on keeping our tuition low.”
“Each metric in these rankings is focused on how successful we are at serving our students,” said Tom Kuntz, chair of the Board of Governors. “I am beyond thrilled that a publication as renowned as U.S News and World Report is recognizing us as the best.”
“This achievement is a reflection of the work of the Governor, the Legislature, the Board of Governors, the universities and colleges, and so many higher education stakeholders around the state,” said Marshall Criser III, State University System Chancellor. “While we are incredibly proud to be recognized as No. 1, this ranking will also serve as an inspiration as we continue every day to push for a better, stronger university system in Florida.”
“At the Florida Chamber of Commerce, we believe talent is Florida’s best economic development strategy, and a quality higher education system is crucial to our state’s success,” said Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber. “This recognition is an encouraging reminder that Florida’s higher education system is strong and continues to make great progress in positioning students to succeed in Florida’s future workforce.”
“This is excellent news for Florida’s higher education system and all taxpayers of Florida, who benefit when we graduate students on time and with minimal debt,” said  Lee Arnold, chair of the Higher Education Committee, Florida Council of 100. “This is a remarkable accomplishment.”
Facts about the State University System of Florida and the Board of Governors
The State University System of Florida is a constitutional body led by the 17-member Board of Governors. The system has 12 universities and more than 341,000 students, making it the second-largest public university system in the nation. Responsibilities include defining the distinctive mission of each institution and managing the system’s coordination and operation. The Board appoints a chancellor who serves as the system’s chief executive. For more, visit www.flbog.edu, visit Think-Florida.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.