Special to Banner-News
For the first time, Southern Arkansas University has more than 3,500 students enrolled on its Magnolia campus, and numerous enrollment records were broken, according to a release from the university.
“It is exciting to see enrollment in Magnolia top 3,500 for the first time in our history,” said SAU President Dr. David Rankin. “It is particularly rewarding to see increases in both undergraduate and graduate numbers, a record freshman class, and a significant increase in the number of students living on campus.”
Total enrollment for the semester was up 141 over fall 2013 with 3,545 students registering for classes. This represents an increase of 4.14 percent. Of those, 3,037 are undergraduates, and 508 are pursuing graduate degrees, setting a new record for the School of Graduate Studies.
Rankin attributed the enrollment records to the hard work of the SAU faculty and staff.
“In the challenging environment higher education finds itself in today, an increase in student numbers does not just happen. It takes a dedicated and concentrated effort and many hours of hard work to see this accomplished,” he said.
Dr. Donna Allen, vice president for student affairs, echoed Rankin.
“I am extremely grateful for everyone’s hard work in helping this record number of students have the opportunity to have the complete college experience by enrolling at SAU,” she said.
Other broken records include the number of students living on campus. This year, 1,538 students have chosen to reside in on-campus residence halls and apartments, pushing University housing to its max. Compared to last year, on-campus living is up 91 students.
The international student population has hit an all-time high with 154 students enrolled from 39 countries. This number is up from 99 international students in 2013.
The SAU Honors College has enrolled a record 61 new students, bringing its total enrollment to 170 – the highest total enrollment in program history.
Administrators are attributing the growth to several new programs that are unique to SAU. The computer game and animation design program began in fall 2013 and boasts 65 students. The new Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree – the only degree of its kind in south Arkansas – began this semester and already has 50 students enrolled.
In athletics, 51 new students have arrived to participate in the Muleriders’ reinstated track and field program.
“New programs and events have gotten the attention of potential students, and we are very excited about their decision to attend SAU,” said Dean of Enrollment Services Sarah Jennings. “The faculty and staff have done a great job working together to attract students, and I am especially proud of the recruiting efforts by our admissions and enrollment services team. We are looking forward to a great year at SAU!”