New semester brings boost in enrollment

The college reached a near-record number of new students in fall semester, according to the institution’s official fall headcount.

New incoming students numbered 431, a peak not exceeded in 10 years. The total includes first-time freshmen, transfers and graduate students.

“It brings me great joy to know that we are the institution of choice for students pursuing their dreams and seeking to earn a degree in a faith-based environment,” said President Susanna Baxter.

Overall, college enrollment climbed 21% this fall, reaching a total of 814 students, after a few years of COVIDinfluenced setbacks. Freshman enrollment rose 30%.

College administrators point to enhanced academic programs, both graduate and undergraduate, as part of the reason for the growth.

“We plan to continue to invest in opportunities to meet our region’s workforce needs,” said Dr. Baxter. “We are creating a program in manufacturing engineering technology, something requested by the manufacturing base here. We also plan to launch a master’s degree in computer science in January.”