JALC Sees Increases in Both Enrollment and Credit Hours for the Spring Semester

Published on January 31, 2025

As the higher education sector faces a nationwide enrollment cliff, John A. Logan College has emerged as an exception to the trend, experiencing increases in enrollment, 1.6 percent, and credit hours, .33 percent for the spring 2025 semester. The College has had a total increase of 11 percent in credit hours since 2021. The college’s strategic, all-hands-on-deck approach to recruitment and retention is credited with this success amid a broader decline in college attendance nationwide.

Nationally, many colleges and universities are grappling with a sharp decline in student enrollment, a trend exacerbated by demographic shifts, changing attitudes toward higher education, and economic challenges. However, John A. Logan College has bucked this trend thanks to innovative recruitment and retention strategies that resonate with prospective students.

“We are seeing tangible results from our focused efforts to engage students at every step of their academic journey,” said Dr. Kirk Overstreet, President of John A. Logan College. “It’s not just about getting students through the door – it’s about ensuring they stay and thrive throughout their time with us.”

Overstreet added that while the increases are modest, they are increases. “Our goal is to continue to move in a positive direction and build on our success each semester.”

Innovative Outreach and Support Programs

Faculty and staff at John A. Logan College have developed various programs designed to meet the needs of modern students. Recruitment initiatives have been tailored to reach high school students, adult learners, and returning students through targeted outreach, digital marketing campaigns, and partnerships with local high schools.

A key element in the college’s success has been its innovative retention efforts, which focus on student support beyond the classroom. Faculty and staff are proactively involved in helping students navigate academic and personal challenges. The college has also ramped up efforts to offer flexible scheduling options, including online and hybrid courses and short-term fast-track options, making it easier for students with varying life circumstances to continue their education.

“The personal connections we’ve built with students are crucial,” said April Marinez, Director of Enrollment Management. “We’ve made a concerted effort to show students that they’re not just a number to us – we truly care about their success.”

Increased Enrollment and Credit Hours

John A. Logan College has reported a year-over-year increase in student enrollment, which is the opposite of the national trend of declining student numbers. In addition, the college has seen a rise in the number of credit hours taken, a key indicator of student engagement and academic success.

“The increase in enrollment and credit hours is a testament to the hard work and creativity of our entire college community,” said Dr. Overstreet. “We are committed to surviving this enrollment cliff and thriving through it, and our growth shows that we are on the right path.”

Looking to the Future

Leaders at John A. Logan College hope to continue defying the national trend of emphasizing personalized support, community involvement, and adaptability. The college has proven that a proactive, student-centered approach can make a difference in the face of a rapidly changing educational landscape.

“We are determined to keep moving forward with positive increases each semester in enrollment and credit hours,” said Dr. Overstreet. “Our goal is to ensure that every student who walks through our doors feels supported, empowered, and prepared to succeed in their future endeavors.”

Overstreet added that spring enrollment is not complete. “We have several fast-track options that are 8,10, and 12 weeks as opposed to the traditional 16-week courses. These classes are currently enrolling students and are not all included in the tenth-day census report.”

With the continued growth of enrollment and the expansion of innovative programs, John A. Logan College is poised to remain a vital educational institution in the region, offering a beacon of hope for students during a time of uncertainty for the nation’s higher education system.

For more information on John A. Logan College’s enrollment and academic offerings, visit their website at www.jalc.edu.