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Macalester Ranks 4th Among Peace Corps’ 2026 Top Volunteer-Producing Small Colleges

Teal badge that says Peace Corps Top Colleges 2026 with gold laurel leaf edges and a navy blue background

During the past fiscal year, 12 Scots served in 11 countries around the world.

    Macalester College is ranked fourth among small schools on the Peace Corps’ 2026 list of Top Volunteer-Producing Colleges and Universities.

    The Peace Corps, the United States’ premier international volunteering agency, sends skilled  Americans abroad to collaborate on projects that advance both American and host country priorities. 

    During the past fiscal year, 12 Scots served in 11 countries around the world, including Cambodia, the Dominican Republic, Georgia, Guyana, Kosovo, Mexico, Moldova, Paraguay, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tonga.

    Peace Corps volunteers work alongside local community members, gaining skills and experience while fostering mutual understanding and promoting American values.

    Since its founding in 1961, the Peace Corps has sent 410 Scots to serve abroad as volunteers.

    “We are grateful to partner with colleges and universities across the nation who instill the value of national service in their students, inspiring them to pursue their purpose post- graduation,” said Peace Corps acting Director Richard E. Swarttz. “In more than 60 countries, Peace Corps volunteers are working side by side with communities helping to address real needs through agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health, and youth in development projects.”

    2026 Top Small Colleges and Universities – Total Volunteers
    Fewer than 5,000 undergraduates

    1. Colorado College – 17
    2. Hobart and William Smith Colleges – 15
    3. Kenyon College – 13
    4. Macalester College – 12
    5. Carleton College – 11

    Visit peacecorps.gov/ to learn more about the Peace Corps and apply for service.