Nash Community College is celebrating an increase in enrollment for the Spring 2025 semester, with an overall 7.9% growth in headcount and a 7.6% increase in Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) students compared to the previous year. The growth occurred in the University Transfer (6.2%), Career and Technical Education (CTE) (6.2%) and Special Credit (38.4%). Special Credit students are individuals who come from another institution (primarily a university/college) to take one class for transfer. The college also welcomed 567 new students this semester, marking an important milestone in its ongoing efforts to support student success and academic growth.
This surge in enrollment is supported by a new strategic approach to enrollment management, which includes the formation of an internal enrollment workgroup. This group, made up of representatives from various departments such as the Division of Student Access and Success, Marketing/Public Relations, NCC Foundation, Business Office and faculty, has focused on actionable strategies for immediate impact. The group’s work has been key in addressing short-term enrollment and retention challenges.
“Strategic enrollment planning is at the heart of our efforts,” said Dr. Lew K. Hunnicutt, president of NCC. “We’ve worked tirelessly to increase our outreach and expand the access and opportunities available to our students. This growth is a direct reflection of the commitment of our faculty, staff and community partners to student success. We’re excited to see these results, and we look forward to the continued impact of our strategic initiatives.”
In addition to this internal workgroup, the college has also been laying the foundation for long-term success with the creation of a Strategic Enrollment Management Council. Since the fall of 2024, this council has brought together both internal and external stakeholders to develop a three-year plan focused on recruitment, retention, holistic student success, student completion and post-graduation success. According to the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), Strategic Enrollment Management is a comprehensive and inclusive process designed to help institutions achieve and maintain optimal enrollment.
“Strategic Enrollment Management is a key piece of the puzzle when it comes to fulfilling the mission of Nash Community College,” said Dr. Levy Brown, vice president of student access and success at NCC. “Our new strategic approach is more holistic and ensures that we’re not just bringing in more students but also focusing on their complete journey—ensuring they remain engaged, supported and successful from enrollment to graduation and securing livable wage job opportunities.”
Nash Community College has also seen notable demographic growth, with a 12.5% increase in students who identify as African American and a 22.5% increase in those who identify as American Indian. Additionally, there has been an 8% growth in female students and a 5.9% growth in male students. The 18-24 age group saw an 8% increase, while adult learners aged 25-44 experienced a 9.7% growth. The college continues to see consistent enrollment increases for adult learners, building on the 14.5% growth seen in the fall of 2024.
Academic program growth has been strong as well, with particular highlights in the following areas:
- 35.3% growth in Electrical Systems Technology
- 11.4% growth in Associate in Science – College Transfer
- 47.8% growth in Accounting and Finance
- 11.1% growth in Advertising and Graphic Design
The college plans to continue to focus on the front door experience and access to opportunity while doubling down on retention.
“Retention is essential to completion and post-graduation success,” said Dr. Brown. “NCC is committed to seeing more students walk across the graduation stage and go out into the workforce.”
The increased enrollment and strategic efforts come as part of NCC’s commitment the five core values: Student Success, Teaching & Learning, Respect, Community and Integrity. The college is excited to continue building on this momentum throughout 2025 and beyond.
For more information about program offerings, visit www.nashcc.edu.
