The recognition highlights institutions that are redefining the future of higher education through innovative academic models.
By Institutional Communications
Universidad del Sagrado Corazón (Sagrado) was recognized with the 2026 Top Colleges for Innovation award by Insight Into Academia, a U.S.-based publication dedicated to promoting best practices in higher education. Sagrado was the only university in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean to receive this recognition.
The award recognizes universities where innovation is not an isolated initiative, but rather a driving force embedded in institutional strategy, operations, and culture. These institutions reimagine the design and direction of higher education, demonstrating a strong and intentional commitment to educational transformation. They offer innovative academic models, new learning and training experiences, and creative opportunities for community and professional engagement that respond to the evolving needs of students, their communities, and today’s professional environments.
Sagrado was recognized for its innovative educational model, which integrates academic learning with personal development, professional preparation, civic formation, and technological literacy. As part of this approach, every undergraduate student completes a sequence of courses designed to cultivate leadership, develop a social impact entrepreneurship project, and strengthen essential competencies in communication, critical thinking, research, problem-solving, technological management, and ethical reflection. This education provides a strong foundation for a wide range of future career opportunities.
The University also stands out as the only institution in Puerto Rico recognized with the Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement. Through this approach, the University views surrounding communities as extended learning spaces where students apply disciplinary knowledge to generate meaningful social impact while cultivating ethical awareness, leadership, and a deep sense of civic responsibility.
Another highlighted element was Sagrado’s active collaboration with industries and organizations across sectors. Through its four schools—the School of Arts, Design and Creative Industries, the Ferré Rangel School of Communication, the School of Business, and the School of Health and Sciences—Sagrado establishes partnerships with companies, nonprofit organizations, and public institutions to enrich learning through real-world experiences. The University also continues expanding its bilingual offerings in Spanish and English as part of its global academic vision.
“This recognition validates a commitment to innovation that has been part of the essence of our community throughout the 146 years of Sagrado Corazón’s educational project in Puerto Rico. Innovation is not an end in itself, but rather a fundamental tool for responding to the needs of the times and continuing to educate ethical individuals and professionals capable of transforming their environments and contributing to the construction of a more compassionate Puerto Rican society grounded in justice and peace,” said Gilberto J. Marxuach Torrós, president of Universidad del Sagrado Corazón.
Holly Mendelson, co-owner and publisher of Insight Into Academia, stated that the Top Colleges for Innovation award “is a prestigious national distinction that recognizes institutions driving the next chapter of higher education. In a constantly changing environment, these institutions stand out for anticipating challenges, implementing bold ideas, and setting the standard for excellence and leadership in academia.”
Sagrado will be featured in the June 2026 edition of Insight Into Academia magazine. For more information about the 2026 Top Colleges for Innovation award, visit https://insightintoacademia.com/.