From staff reports
Overall student enrollment numbers are up at Clarion University for the first time since 2009.
Enrollment stood at 5,256 after the first day of classes. The number of new students (undergraduates, transfers and graduate students) is up by nearly 100, the second year in a row that number has grown.
Todd Pfannestiel, the acting president at the university, noted that the areas of growth are in professional preparation programs, reaffirming Clarion’s position as a leader in preparing students for successful lives and livelihoods.
New programs in criminal justice administration and in nutrition and fitness also showed gains, and Clarion’s honors program was maxed out, the press release said.
“More than simply turning the corner, Clarion University is accelerating toward a vibrant future in which students are choosing Clarion first for professional preparation,” said Pfannestiel, who is also the university’s vice president for academic affairs and the interim provost. “Students increasingly recognize that our programs in education, business, the health sciences and liberal arts continue to keep pace with new employment opportunities in the region.”
Improvements in student activities are contributing to a robust campus community, which attracts students, the press release said.
“New to the residence life program this year are four Living Learning Communities,” said Susanne Fenske, vice president of student affairs. “These communities, located within our residence halls, are designed to allow students with common interests to live together, and 185 students are participating this fall.”
