Transformative education rooted in community

When Alejandro Uribe ’28 first set foot on the University of Redlands campus, it was the start of a life-changing experience that would happen close to home. A Hunsaker Scholar majoring in public policy in his second year at Redlands, Uribe already has plans to pursue a Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) degree.  

“The value of a Redlands education shows in building relationships with faculty, classmates, and the grit and perseverance you gain,” he said. “For me, the closely knit community has opened many doors, including attending the Policymaking in Washington, D.C. travel course.”

Uribe’s story is one example of the transformative experiences that define Redlands — a reputation known across the Inland Empire. This year, readers of “The Press Enterprise” named U of R Best Four-Year University and Favorite Graduate/MBA School in the 2025 Best of Inland Empire Readers' Choice Awards.

A legacy of opportunity and impact

For over 118 years, Redlands has been preparing students personally and professionally through endless opportunities. Today, Redlands offers more than 70 undergraduate programs and 60 graduate programs, and has partnerships with leading institutions such as Esri, Washington University, Columbia University, and Loma Linda University.

Across the globe, Redlands collaborates with premier institutions, including Grenoble Ecole de Management in France, Gengdan Institute, and Hubei Oriental Insight Mental Health Institute in China. Additionally, Redlands partners with 20 universities worldwide to provide students with diverse study abroad opportunities.

The University’s legacy continues to have a lasting impact among more than 50,000 alumni. Alumni like Joseph Contreras ’15, who grew up in the Inland Empire, saw the University of Redlands as a path towards possibilities. “I didn’t grow up in a college-educated family and didn’t think a place like Redlands was within reach,” he said. “But when I transferred here, I immediately felt welcome. The smaller class sizes and access to professors made all the difference for me as a first-generation student finding my way.”

That sense of belonging launched Contreras into a career in public health, where he now works for San Bernardino County, safeguarding groundwater resources. He credits Redlands for equipping him with essential skills in communication and problem-solving, skills he uses every day.

Recognition that reflects Bulldog impact

“This recognition as a Best of Inland Empire University affirms what we already know – that Redlands is a place of academic excellence and a powerful partner in building a stronger, more vibrant future for our region,” University President Krista Newkirk said. “Whether through our county-wide economic impact, which is estimated to be $185 million annually, or the approximately 100,000 hours our students contribute annually to local community service, the Bulldog impact is seen and felt throughout the Inland Empire.” 

From first-generation trailblazers to seasoned professionals advancing their careers, the University of Redlands remains a place where personalized education sparks lasting impact. For those who call themselves Bulldogs for Life, the Press-Enterprise honor is more than an award — it highlights Redlands as a center of endless opportunities grounded in the community of the Inland Empire.