Saint Martin’s University wins third consecutive gold award for higher education 

Saint Martin’s University in Lacey won a gold award in the higher education category for the 2026 Best of South Sound Awards for the third straight year. 

Saint Martin’s stated in an Aug. 10 announcement that receiving the award, which is decided through a community vote, “reflects the (university's) enduring commitment to academic excellence, student success and service to the community.” 

University President Bill Brownsberger expressed gratitude for the award.

“We are grateful to everyone in the South Sound who voted for Saint Martin's University. To be recognized by our neighbors in this way is especially meaningful because it reflects the relationships we have built over generations," said Brownsberger in a statement included in the announcement.

"Every day, our faculty, and staff are dedicated to helping students grow intellectually, professionally, and personally, while living out our Benedictine values of community, hospitality, and service."

Dean of Admissions Patty Lemon said the award belongs to the students as much as it does to the university. 

"Every student who chooses Saint Martin's becomes part of a community that is committed to their success from the day they enroll through graduation and beyond. We are honored that the South Sound continues to recognize the difference that kind of personalized education can make,” said Lemon in a statement included in the announcement.

More than 2,000 businesses, organizations, and individuals competed across 215 categories for the 2026 cycle, the award website states.