UW is a top producer of Peace Corps volunteers
Our take
The University of Washington (UW) has once again earned its place as a leading institution in producing Peace Corps volunteers, ranking third since the program's inception in 1961. This recognition not only highlights UW's commitment to global citizenship but also reflects the university's broader mission to instill a sense of purpose and community service among its students. Such a consistent track record aligns with other accolades, including the recent recognition of UW’s graduate and professional programs highly ranked by US News & World Report, showcasing the university's holistic approach to education that combines academic excellence with a dedication to societal impact.
The significance of UW's position as a top producer of Peace Corps volunteers cannot be overstated. It speaks volumes about the character and aspirations of its student body. Many students today are increasingly motivated by a desire to contribute positively to the world, seeking experiences that go beyond traditional classroom learning. The Peace Corps offers an invaluable opportunity for students to immerse themselves in different cultures, tackle pressing global issues, and develop skills that are essential for both personal and professional growth. This aligns with the broader trend among young people today who prioritize belonging, growth, and independence—values that resonate deeply with our community-first ethos.
Moreover, UW's prominence in this area encourages a ripple effect across the region and beyond. When students participate in the Peace Corps, they return home with enriched perspectives and a renewed sense of purpose. Their experiences abroad often inspire others to engage in community service or pursue careers in international development, public health, or education. This aligns with the idea that "future me will thank me" mentality, where students are not only focused on immediate gains but also on long-term impacts. Such a mindset fosters a culture of responsibility and interconnectedness, vital for addressing the complex challenges facing our global society today.
As we look to the future, it's essential to consider how this recognition might influence prospective students and the university's strategic initiatives. Will UW continue to cultivate programs and resources that encourage service-oriented opportunities? Will there be increased collaboration with local organizations to facilitate more hands-on experiences for students before they even join the Peace Corps? As we continue to witness the growing commitment to service among students, these questions become increasingly relevant.
Ultimately, UW’s ongoing success as a top producer of Peace Corps volunteers serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. It reminds us that education is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about fostering a sense of community and responsibility toward the greater good. As we celebrate this achievement, we should also reflect on how we can further support and empower students to engage in meaningful work that makes a difference—not only for themselves but for the world around them.
The Peace Corps announced Tuesday that the University of Washington is again No. 3 on the list of top volunteer-producing institutions since the international program launched in 1961.
For 2025, the UW placed No. 7 among universities with 15,000 or more enrolled undergraduates in total number of Peace Corps volunteers, according to the Peace Corps. In total, more than 3,175 UW graduates have gone on to service opportunities abroad as volunteers.
The UW is proud to prepare students to engage meaningfully with the world, said Ahmad Ezzeddine, UW vice provost for global affairs.
“The Peace Corps remains one of our nation’s most effective avenues for citizen diplomacy, and we are grateful for its long history of strengthening communities around the globe,” Ezzeddine said.
Volunteers in the Peace Corps work side by side with communities to help to address real needs through agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health and youth in development projects, Peace Corps acting Director Richard E. Swarttz said.
“Sixty-five years after our founding, the Peace Corps is still going strong,” he said.
According to the Peace Corps, 38 UW alumni served in 26 countries around the world during the past fiscal year, including Albania, Montenegro, Armenia, Cameroon, Colombia, countries in the Eastern Caribbean, Ecuador, Fiji, Georgia, Guatemala, Guinea, Guyana, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mexico, Morocco, Namibia, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, South Africa, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Vanuatu and Zambia.
To better reflect the combined contributions of volunteers who serve traditional 27-month assignments and Peace Corps Response volunteers who serve for 6-12 months, the Peace Corps counted alumni volunteers who served at any point during the 2025 fiscal year for the 2026 rankings. Previously, colleges and universities were ranked on a one-day annual headcount of volunteers on Sept. 30, the last day of the fiscal year.
More than 250,000 Americans have served in the Peace Corps around the world since President John F. Kennedy initiated the program in 1961.
Learn more about the Peace Corps and the UW.
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