10.06.04

Erskine College reaches enrollment goal two years early

A number of the goals established in Erskine College's strategic plan of 2001 have been accomplished, but one of the more significant goals has been reached two years early.

The plan called for development, implementation and support of an aggressive admissions plan to have no fewer than 600 students by 2006.

The college officially began the academic year with 617 actual students and 609 full-time equivalent students, Vice President and Dean of the College Dr. Donald Weatherman said.

"The key to reaching this number has been the combined efforts of the admissions office and retention efforts by many across the campus," Weatherman said. "The 179 freshmen who enrolled make the second largest freshman class in over a decade."

Another key point, he said, is that this year's group of freshmen is strong from an academic standpoint and is geographically diverse.

Board of Trustees Chairman John Moore said the college's mission is "pursued one step at a time."

He said the strategic planning committee felt the teaching/learning atmosphere would be enhanced and utilization of facilities would be maximized with enrollment at 600.

"The admissions staff and the students have worked hard over the last few years to make progress each year on this goal," Moore said. "Having 600 students will provide enhanced activities on campus and assist in the budget/financial process."

Weatherman said it is important to realize that just five years ago, the college started the fall semester with 498 students.

The enrollment climb didn't happen overnight, however.

"It happened in a fairly consistent manner," Weatherman said.

The ability to achieve the goal early came about as a result of several factors, he said, including the size of the freshman class.

"A key feature to reaching that goal was a very strong retention rate among returning students," he said.

To help retain more students, the college expanded freshman orientation to a week this year to ease the transition from high school to college, Weatherman said, adding that the college had a "good number" of transfer students.

Director of Admissions Bart Walker said the ability to recruit and retain students is a result of a campus wide effort.

"Reaching the strategic plan goal of 600 students is a reflection of the entire campus, students, faculty, alumni and staff, working together to create a better learning environment," Walker said. "As a result, Erskine has been able to attract more students while retaining a higher percentage of our current students."

The enrollment goal led to the admissions office to expand its staff and improve its operations, he said.

"At the same time, the strategic plan addressed several areas needing improvement," Walker said. "All six residence halls were renovated, making our residence halls some of the best in the South."

He said academic programs, such as art and information technology, were added, while other programs were enhanced.

"Erskine also expanded its marketing efforts, broadening the reach of our message to a greater number of students and parents," Walker said.

Moore said the board is pleased with this development.

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