Franklin College announced it achieved a nearly 9% increase in new student enrollment compared to last year, a figure that is 7.6% above the institution’s goal for the Class of 2027.

“We are very excited about both the size and the quality of this entering class,” said Franklin College President Kerry N. Prather. “In the current environment of declining demographics and declining rates of college matriculation in Indiana, surpassing our goal is an impressive achievement.”

The 296 students in the class represent one of the most academically prepared and one of the most diverse classes in recent history. Twenty-three percent of the class identify as students of color or more than one ethnicity.

“We are proud to welcome such an outstanding group of new students to our campus,” said Andrew Hendricks, vice president for enrollment and marketing. “They have come here from different states and different countries for many different reasons, but they will all quickly experience the welcoming and vibrant atmosphere that is Franklin. These students are already showing an appetite for learning and increased engagement in every way, and we cannot wait to see what they achieve.”

The college credits the success of the class size to a combination of factors, including a more robust presence with digital media; continued focus on providing student-athletes with a combination of high achieving athletic and academic opportunities; a more comprehensive communication plan with students both inside and outside of Indiana; and stronger connections between prospective students and the faculty who directly teach the courses. In addition, Franklin College works directly with every family to leverage private scholarships provided by individuals and corporations who help support the college and its students.

“A great deal of credit goes to our admissions and coaching staff,” said Prather, “but in this day and age, our entire campus community contributes to student recruitment. I’m grateful to the entire faculty and staff as well as our alumni who assisted our efforts. Enrollment growth is one of the priorities of our new strategic plan, Franklin Forward, and this class represents a solid step forward in achieving that goal over the coming years.”

Freshman McKenzie Musser said, “I am excited to be at Franklin because of the community it provides. I have met lots of amazing professors and students that I know will help support me in achieving my goals. Being here means increasing my knowledge while building a community around me.”

Franklin College is the only four-year, residential institution in Johnson County offering bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.

For more information, contact the Office of Communications at (317) 738-8185.

POSTED Sep 21, 2023