HWS News
8 June 2026 • Alums HWS Earns Top Marks in Forbes Financial Health Ranking
Forbes’ “Financial Report Card” gives HWS an “A” for operational soundness and balance sheet health.
Hobart and William Smith has been recognized among the nation’s financially strongest private institutions in Forbes’ 2026 Financial Report Card: The Weakest and Strongest Private Colleges in America, an annual assessment of the financial health of more than 900 colleges and universities. The ranking evaluates factors including liquidity, operating performance and long-term financial sustainability.
“This recognition reflects the strength of HWS’ future-focused strategy, and the confidence alumni, families and students continue to place in our mission,” says President Mark D. Gearan.
“At a time when the higher education sector is facing challenges, HWS is investing in innovation, student access and academic excellence from a position of strength.”
HWS’ incoming Class of 2030 saw a 20% increase in enrollment. Read more about the vibrant class here. As of June 1, $353 million has been raised toward the $400 million goal of “Further Together: The Campaign for Our Third Century.” This includes $216 million raised in fiscal years 2024 and 2025. An historic $70 million gift from L. Thomas Melly ’52 and Judith Hershey Melly was one of the largest contributions nationally to a college or university in 2024.
Nearly half of the institutions evaluated in the Forbes report received a grade of C or lower.
The data was sourced from the Department of Education’s National Center For Educational Statistics as well as from higher education analytics and consulting firm Perspective Data Science.
Read more about Forbes’ methodology here.
