THIBODAUX, La. — Record-high retention rates are key to a fourth consecutive Spring enrollment growth at Nicholls State University. Overall enrollment, including undergraduate and graduate students, is 5,896, up 58 from Spring 2018, according to 14th class day statistics. “This is a testament to our entire campus to see continued enrollment growth during these trying times for higher education in Louisiana,” said Alex Arceneaux, executive vice president for enrollment and external affairs. “Students recognize that our programs are first class and relevant in today’s workforce.”
While Fall enrollment is often representative of new students, Spring semester enrollment is a reflection of retention. This Spring, Nicholls fall-to-spring retention rate is 89.4 percent, breaking the previous high of 88.3 percent in Spring 2016, and continuing a run of retention rates of 87 to 86 percent or higher over the last four years.
A number of initiatives have been implemented to address student advising and mentoring. In the Fall, Nicholls announced the creation of its Colonels Retention of Winners Network to help retain freshmen, black males. Fall-to-spring retention for freshman black males increased by 12.4 percent compared to the previous spring.
“Here at Nicholls State University, we are committed to changing lives,” said Dr. Jay Clune, Nicholls President. “The CROWN program is having a profound impact on our campus.”
###
CONTACT: Jacob Batte, Media Relations and Publications Coordinator,
985.448.4141 or jacob.batte@www.nicholls.edu
