UC Santa Cruz is tied for fifth place among California universities and in the top 20 nationally for the most Peace Corps volunteers in 2013. UCSC was recognized by the Peace Corps' annual ranking of top volunteer-producing colleges.
With 60 alumni currently serving in the Peace Corps, UCSC is tied for 17th among large universities with more than 15,000 undergraduates. Last year, UCSC ranked 24th in the category. So far, 766 UC Santa Cruz alumni have served or are serving in the Peace Corps.
This year marks the 11th consecutive year that UCSC has appeared in the Peace Corps’ top 25 ranking among either large or medium-sized universities.
"Peace Corps announces Top Colleges annually to recognize the schools that contribute the most alumni who are making a difference overseas through volunteer service," said Peace Corps West Coast Regional Manager Janet Allen.
"We thank and congratulate the University of California, Santa Cruz, as one of the 23 universities from the West Coast producing globally-minded leaders who turn idealism into action as Peace Corps volunteers. It's wonderful to see UCSC move up seven spots this year."
“As a result of the top-notch education they receive, these graduates are well prepared for the challenge of international service. They become leaders in their host communities and carry the spirit of service and leadership back with them when they return home,” she said.
Six University of California campuses are ranked on the top 25 list of large universities. UCLA and Berkeley are tied for sixth, UC Santa Barbara is 10th, UC San Diego is 13th, UCSC and UC Davis are tied for 17th.
Currently, 489 UC graduates are serving as Peace Corps volunteers out of 8,073 volunteers worldwide. See the full 2013 college rankings.
About the Peace Corps: Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps by executive order on March 1, 1961, more than 210,000 Americans have served in 139 host countries. Today, 8,073 volunteers are working with local communities in 76 host countries in agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health and youth in development. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment and the agency’s mission is to promote world peace and friendship and a better understanding between Americans and people of other countries. Visit www.peacecorps.gov for more information.
