The Honors College could make it feel smaller. He might really enjoy their programming, such as the Praxis Labs where students engage for a full year on teams addressing “pressing societal challenges” Praxis Labs – Honors College Terrific financial deal too, as already noted. I’d look closely at Honors specifically before ruling it out - could turn out to be a better fit than he thinks.
Also seconding Claremont McKenna as a great reach option!