CSU-Pueblo fall enrollment sees increases in diversity, freshmen

PUEBLO - Colorado State University-Pueblo officials announced positive 2016 fall retention and enrollment figures, which significantly exceeded budget projections and included a 5.4 percent increase in the freshmen class. The University's overall student population is the most diverse in its history at 49.3 percent minority.

CSU-Pueblo President Lesley Di Mare said 835 freshmen enrolled this fall, an increase of 5.4 percent over the prior year. The freshmen class hails from 30 states and 12 countries and includes 44 additional non-resident students, with notable increases in New Mexico, Arizona, and Hawaii. More than 55 percent of the freshmen class reported being from a minority group. The overall student population represents 43 states and 35 countries.

Di Mare said administrators had conservatively projected an overall decline of 4.7 percent based on national trends for regional comprehensive universities as well as the University's demographics and enrollment trends with feeder high schools and community colleges. Overall headcount enrollment was flat. The University serves more than 10,000 students annually (many of whom are not included in the reportable figures), including those in high school concurrent enrollment classes, the English Language Institute, teacher certification, extended studies courses, and online programs.

The retention rate at census was 66 percent, the highest rate reported in the last 13 years.

"Improvements in financial aid packaging and an effective marketing campaign have contributed to the growth in new freshmen," Di Mare said. "It is gratifying to see our enrollment initiatives paying dividends. Students throughout Colorado and the region are recognizing that CSU-Pueblo is an excellent place to fulfill their personal and professional goals."

CSU-Pueblo has partnered with Royall & Company to implement a targeted campaign to increase awareness and interest in the academic programs across the campus. The addition of six new sports in 2014-15 has brought the number of student athletes to more than 540 this fall. Facility investments such as the new General Classroom Building and the renovation/expansion to the Occhiato University Center have become attractive selling points in our current and future recruitment efforts.

Colorado State University - Pueblo is a regional, comprehensive university emphasizing professional, career-oriented, and applied programs. Displaying excellence in teaching, celebrating diversity, and engaging in service and outreach, CSU-Pueblo is distinguished by access, opportunity, and the overall quality of services provided to its students.