CMU overall enrollment at record high, but reduction in freshmen

(NOTE: This article originally appeared in the September 11, 2009 edition of Central Michigan Life.)

Central Michigan University is witnessing a record-high on-campus enrollment this fall despite a drop in freshmen.


According to new reports released by CMU’s Office of Institutional Research, freshman enrollment for the
fall 2009 semester is down 4.5 percent, at 3,691 from last fall’s 3,864. But overall on-campus enrollment is up to 20,444, said Steve Smith, director of public relations.

The university was expecting the drop in freshmen.

“This is something the university has been forecasting for a number of years,” Smith said. “The number of high school graduates in the state is dropping and is anticipated to do so until 2017.”

Program to provide easier access to college, financial aid

(NOTE: This article originally appeared in the May 1, 2009 edition of Central Michigan Life.)

Gov. Jennifer Granholm revealed a plan aimed at doubling the state’s number of college graduates in an effort to diversify the state’s economy.

The program, called the Michigan College Access Network, will promote post-secondary education by supporting local programs that help people obtain information about higher education and how to obtain financial assistance. The governor expects the network up and running by the fall of 2010.

The governor feels that producing a well educated workforce is a must for improving the state’s economy.

“Michigan absolutely must produce the nation’s best-educated workforce to create jobs and diversify our economy,” Granholm said in a press release. “The Michigan College Access Network will mobilize the assets of every community in our state to give both our young people and adults the support and information they need to get a college education. We have to use every resource possible to help make higher education accessible and affordable for every Michigan citizen.”

Legacy Program seeks out-of-staters

(NOTE: This article originally appeared in the March 30, 2009 edition of Central Michigan Life.)

Before attending CMU, John Waters had not lived a day in Michigan.

But the Georgia senior receives in-state tuition because his father took classes at CMU’s satellite campus in Atlanta.

“I wanted to be a teacher and (CMU) has a great teaching program,” Waters said. “I wanted to be on my own, grow up a little more, the (Legacy tuition rate) has really helped me a lot.”

The Alumni Legacy Award is offered to out-of-state students who have had a parent or grandparent that graduated from CMU with either an undergraduate or post-graduate degree, according to Director of Admissions Betty Wagner.