FERRUM COLLEGE SEES GROWTH IN ENROLLMENT

April 12, 2004

     Ferrum College cites better student retention and increasing popularity of professional careers such as criminal justice, teacher education, and the sciences as driving forces behind one of their busiest recruitment years in recent history. Applications to Ferrum College are up 5% for the fall semester of 2004 with additional applications arriving each week at the small, private college in southwest Virginia.

     “Clearly, the number of applications and acceptances is a vote of confidence by students and families that Ferrum is providing a quality educational experience,” said Dr. Dan Miller, Vice President for Student Affairs and Planning.

      “For a long time we have been hearing that students and families want an educational experience that is both caring and challenging. Simply put, in and out of the classroom, Ferrum students have the opportunity to participate and excel in their areas of interest,” said Dr. Miller.

     Ferrum College President Jennifer Braaten recently announced Ferrum’s plans to undertake a set of major facility improvements due to be completed in 2006. These ambitious construction projects will result in new and improved facilities across campus in the first such comprehensive enhancement of multiple areas of campus since the 1960’s.

      “I have been associated with Ferrum for a number of years: as a student, a member of the staff, and as the mother of a recent grad. I can't remember a time when the level of energy and sense of purpose was stronger.  It is a great time to be at Ferrum College!,” said Gilda Woods, Director of Admissions.

       Dr. Miller observes, “One couldn't think of a better time to be considering Ferrum College. We are all excited about the innovations in our academic program and the building campaign. The College is as focused as ever on enhancing the student experience.”

      Ferrum College is a four-year, private, co-educational, liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Ferrum offers a choice of nationally recognized bachelor’s degree programs at a cost well below the national average for private colleges. For more information on Ferrum, visit www.ferrum.edu. # # #