Union’s new students are treated to a dinner and live music as part of Welcome Weekend activities.

Union Welcomes Largest Class in 21 Years

More than 325 new students were welcomed to Union College in August, marking a record-setting year in enrollment. It is the largest freshman class in 21 years.

In addition to a large freshman class, Union also saw a 13% increase in returning students. The student body has increased by 10% over last year. Even after purchasing the former College Motel this summer and rehabilitating it for use as student housing, the college is at 114% capacity.

“We worked hard this summer to get everything in place once it became clear that this class would be larger than usual,” says Jerry Jackson, dean of enrollment. “We’ve been preparing for these numbers gradually over the past four years as enrollment numbers steadily increased.”

The size of the student body has required that Union be creative with facilities. Housing arrangements had to be redrawn in late summer to accommodate the growing population of new students. This Thursday’s fall convocation will take place in Robsion Arena. The chapel, where the event is normally held, is not large enough to hold all full-time students, as well as the faculty, staff and community members who attend.

Enrollment at Union has edged up consistently for four consecutive years, which is the longest sustained increase in over ten years for the college. In response to the increases, Union has, over time, hired additional faculty, added classroom and faculty office capacity, and purchased a new housing facility.

Union’s graduate program and Union College London Center, a site primarily for adult learners, are also on track to meet enrollment goals.

Union College is a liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

September 2, 2008

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