The University of Vermont ranks among the Northeast’s Best Colleges for LGBTQ Students, according to a new ranking.

BestColleges, in partnership with Campus Pride, released its 2020 college rankings for LGBTQ+ students, placing UVM first among Vermont schools.

“Every student deserves to go to a college that is inclusive and a safe space — to learn, live and grow,” said Shane Windmeyer, Executive Director of Campus Pride.

The ranking combines BestColleges’ methodology of academic support and affordability data along with Campus Pride Index, the premier national benchmarking tool that measures LGBTQ-friendly campus life.

Featured schools “were vetted by Campus Pride using their knowledge of the LGBTQ+ education landscape,” according to the ranking.

The ranking highlights the ways UVM “seeks to empower LGBTQ+ students” and gives high marks in areas like counseling and health, campus safety, support and institutional commitment, and gender-inclusive housing and restrooms. “UVM’s Prism Center helps make the university one of the best colleges for LGBTQ+ students,” says BestColleges, noting events including Rainbow Graduation, which was celebrated virtually this spring.

UVM currently has a 4.5/5-star rating on the Campus Pride Index, “an overall indicator of institutional commitment to LGBTQ-inclusive policy, program and practice.”

See the complete list of Best Colleges for LGBTQ Students by state.