Colorado Christian University released their latest census
report this week, and the school continues to grow despite a sluggish economy.
For the 2011-2012 school year, 960 students are enrolled in the University's
College of Undergraduate Studies, up from 916 a year before.
Under
the leadership of President Bill Armstrong, the last three years have seen the
three largest freshmen classes in school history, and overall enrollment has
increased by almost 100 students since 2008. This year sets the record as the
largest enrollment during his tenure.
As higher education comes
under increasingly hard times, a 10% population increase over the past three
years communicates the value of an education at CCU. As Vice President for
Student Life Jim McCormick said, "This shows that even in a down economy
Christian parents value an education that couples the commitment of having
students grow in their faith and hone their God given gifts and talents in a
discipline that will someday impact His Kingdom."
Indeed, the school
recently welcomed 366 freshmen and transfer students at the annual "Call to
Community" event. The event offers a chance for new students to be welcomed by
faculty, staff, and leaders of the student body. One aspect of the event entails
parents ceremonially entrusting their children to the care of CCU.
As
part of that care, Colorado Christian University envisions students who think
critically and creatively, lead with high ethical and professional standards,
and embody Jesus. Judging by growth, this timeless message clearly resonates
with both students and parents. McCormick added, "As the world gets more unsure
of itself economically, politically, and socially, parents are more than ever
willing to stretch their finances to ensure that their son or daughter gets the
foundational spiritual grounding that they need to be successful as a whole
person in their lives ahead."
The higher enrollment numbers are a
testament to various elements within the University -- not only admissions
efforts -- and speak to the excellence of professors, residence directors, and
support staff, who through their work have kept retention at a high level and
continue to help make Colorado Christian University a place where students are
challenged, supported, and engaged.