Some Georgia universities experiencing record enrollment during the pandemic

COBB COUNTY, Ga. — A global pandemic has not slowed students from signing up to attend Georgia colleges and universities.

Kennesaw State University welcomed more than 40,900 students this fall representing an 8% increase over 2019. The enrollment includes 8,100 freshmen representing Class of 2024.

“The rising enrollment is a reflection of the quality programs, opportunities for engaged learning, and the dedication of our faculty and staff who work every day to ensure the success of students,” KSU President Pamela Whitten said. “Given the current challenges and uncertainty, it is especially gratifying to see that our students and their families are prioritizing a college education.”

Georgia State University also set a record for the largest enrollment with more than 54,000 qualified and diverse students in the school’s history. This year, GSU set another record for the most Blacks and Hispanics enrolled as freshmen, which is up 5% from the previous year.

“This is the first time in Georgia State history we have topped 5,000 students in our fall freshman bachelor’s class,” said Timothy M. Renick, senior vice president for student success at Georgia State.

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Bringing the best and the brightest from all over the country during the pandemic and setting records may come to a surprise to some, but both universities are thrilled at chance to educate the class of 2024.

“While some may find it surprising that Georgia State is setting enrollment records during a pandemic, the value of a college education has never been higher and with all the flexibility we provide, Georgia State has never been a more attractive option,” Renick said.

The statewide enrollment numbers were not ready when this story was written, according to Aaron Diamant, Vice Chancellor of Communications with the University Systems of Georgia.

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Cox Media Group