Huntington University enrolls a record 1,211 students
FOR RELEASE: Sunday, September 7, 2008
Note: The enrollment numbers were updated by the Registrar's Office on Sept. 8. These are the final numbers for fall 2008. Huntington, Ind.- At the annual Huntington University Foundation dinner Thursday evening, university President G. Blair Dowden announced record-breaking enrollment numbers.
Huntington University achieved an overall enrollment of 1,211 students for the fall 2008 semester, a 5 percent increase over the fall of 2007. This total includes 978 traditional undergraduates-a new record-plus 130 students in the EXCEL Adult Degree Programs and a record 103 students enrolled in the Huntington University Graduate School. This is the first year HU's graduate programs have exceeded the 100-student mark.
Huntington had a 10 percent increase in new undergraduate students this fall. The Christian liberal arts college enrolled a record 327 new full-time traditional undergraduate students, including first-time freshmen and transfer students.
"We are very excited about our growing enrollment," said Dowden. "It is so rewarding to meet these new students and to experience their enthusiasm for beginning college. They have come to Huntington eager to learn, to grow in faith, and to serve others."
Dowden added that he was grateful that the university's new student residence, Livingston Hall, was completed in time for the beginning of the fall semester. "With a record-breaking incoming class, Livingston Hall is already 97 percent full, and overall student housing is at 90 percent of capacity," Dowden said. "Managed growth will continue to be a major focus for Huntington University. Our long-range plan calls for increasing enrollment to 2,000 students by 2016."
Dowden noted that U.S. ethnic minorities comprise 7 percent of incoming freshmen. While 56 percent of all students are Indiana residents, the student body includes representatives of 36 different states and Puerto Rico. In addition, there are 31 international students representing 17 countries.
The university has strong local appeal, as well. Thirty-three of the new students on campus this fall hail from Huntington County.
This fall, Huntington University received a number of accolades and honors. U.S.News & World Report ranked Huntington No. 7 among the Midwest's "Best Baccalaureate Colleges" and No. 5 among the "Best Values" in Midwestern baccalaureate colleges. Additionally for 2009, U.S.News included the university on its list of top schools with students representing the greatest economic diversity.
The Princeton Review named Huntington a "Best Midwestern College." This was the university's first listing by the New York City-based education services company.
In addition, Forbes.com placed Huntington University on its Top 100 list of America's Best Colleges. Huntington was one of only five schools in Indiana to earn that distinction.
