Only 17 higher education institutions nationwide were designated top producers.
Willamette University was a top producer of both Fulbright Scholars and Fulbright Students in 2020-21, among only four baccalaureate institutions recognized as a top producer in both categories.
The university shared the honor with Middlebury College, Pomona College and the University of Richmond, according to a list published annually by The Chronicle of Higher Education.
Nearly 600 higher education institutions actively participate in the Fulbright program, and only 17 college and universities — 10 doctoral, two master’s, four baccalaureate and one special focus institution — were considered top producers of both scholars and students this past year.
For the U.S. Student program, five Willamette students were offered awards and 13 applied. For the U.S. Scholars program, Fulbright offered Willamette two awards.
Data this year reflects a change. Only the number of awards offered — rather than the number of awards accepted — was provided to reflect program adaptations that prioritize the health and safety of participants and host communities, according to Fulbright.
Academic exchanges through the Scholar and Student programs can take place in more than 150 countries around the world.