SUNY Geneseo’s Career Design Center has been recognized by Colleges of Distinction as a national leader in career development, earning a place on the organization’s list of top colleges with outstanding career services for 2025–2026.
The distinction highlights institutions that excel in helping students successfully bridge the gap between college and career through early engagement, individualized coaching, internship opportunities, and employer partnerships.
“We’re honored to be recognized for the work we do to prepare students not just for their first job, but for a fulfilling, lifelong career,” says Executive Director of the Career Design Center Jessie Stack Lombardo. “This recognition affirms our student-centered approach and the value of empowering students to explore, adapt, and design their unique career journeys.”
A Holistic Approach to Career Readiness
Colleges of Distinction evaluates career development programs on several criteria, including accessibility, integration into the college experience, and results. Geneseo stood out for embedding career exploration early in the student journey, providing expert career coaching, and facilitating real-world experiences through thousands of internships and employer connections.
At the heart of Geneseo’s approach is the belief that career planning is not a one-time decision, but a process that evolves alongside students’ academic and personal growth. The Career Design Center offers a wide range of resources—including one-on-one coaching, resume and interview preparation, career fairs, and access to more than 3,800 internships—to help students identify their strengths and align them with meaningful career paths.
Career Outcomes That Speak for Themselves
According to data from the Career Design Center, Geneseo graduates pursue a wide variety of successful career outcomes. Alumni can be found working at organizations such as Google, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, the U.S. State Department, and Teach For America, or pursuing advanced degrees at prestigious institutions including Cornell, Columbia, and the University of Pennsylvania.
“Geneseo has always emphasized the value of a liberal arts education in developing adaptable, purpose-driven graduates,” says Lombardo. “This recognition underscores how that mission is being realized through strong outcomes and meaningful opportunities.”
About the Career Design Center
Located in the heart of campus, the Career Design Center is a dynamic resource for SUNY Geneseo students and alumni. Its team provides guidance throughout every stage of the career process, from choosing a major to negotiating job offers. In addition to its coaching and programming, the Center connects students with internships, research opportunities, and employer networks to ensure career readiness and long-term success.