Niagara University ranks as one of the top 10 colleges and universities to work for among medium-size institutions in the United States, according to a survey released today by The Chronicle of Higher Education.

Niagara joins 39 colleges and universities named to an Honor Roll of “Great Colleges to Work For” based on the number of times it was listed in 26 individual recognition categories examined in the nationwide survey. The Honor Roll is a new feature in the Chronicle’s survey, which recognizes institutions that have created exceptional work environments.

Niagara was ranked prominently in 17 of the 26 categories, including compensation and benefits, confidence in senior leadership, connection to institution and pride, teaching environment, and healthy faculty-administration relations.

“Niagara University is certainly proud of the distinction of being named to the Chronicle’s inaugural Honor Roll,” said the Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., president of NU. “But the important thanks belong to the faculty, staff and administrators who are the heart of our university. They are the reason Niagara University is a great place to work.”

This year, 247 institutions, including four-year colleges and universities as well as community colleges, participated in the survey, a 270 percent increase from its inaugural year. Participants were segmented into a four-year or two-year category, and classified within these categories based on the size of their undergraduate and graduate enrollment.

The results were determined by responses from nearly 41,000 administrators, faculty and staff members who responded to 60 statements using a five-point scale. The survey was administered online in March and April.

The assessment process included an analysis of demographic data and workplace policies at the participating colleges and universities. It was administered by ModernThink LLC, a human-resources consulting firm that has conducted many "Best Places to Work" surveys for various groups.

Niagara also participated in the Chronicle’s 2008 survey of colleges and universities, ranking among the top five institutions in 20 of 27 categories examined.