By KIMBERLY REYES AND ALEX RHODES
Staff Reporter and Videographer
Amarillo College enrollment is up this semester compared to last spring.
Vice President of Enrollment Management, Bob Austin, said the most important thing that is driving the enrollment increase for this spring is the substantial number of students taking dual credit classes. “College dual credit is almost up 200 students compared to this time last year,” he said. “The other thing is that we have seen an increase in returning students for the spring versus last spring. It’s too early to tell whether or not it’s a huge change in retention.”
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the college is aiming to surpass pre-pandemic enrollment levels. The institution’s efforts to enhance retention and graduation rates through initiatives like the Smart Start to Finish Program and the addition of success coaches.
“When enrollment grows at a local community college, that’s not only good for the college, but good for the entire community because when we have a better-educated workforce and a better-prepared workforce we are better positioned to meet the needs of our local economy, Austin said.
Dean of Liberal Arts, Becky Easton, said the increase is a reflection of the college’s commitment to student success. “I’m always happy when enrollment is up because that means we are helping more students get to where they want to go,” she said.
Some students have also noticed the increase of people on campus. “It shows what a good school Amarillo College is and makes me proud,” Marcos Ramos, a mass media major, said.
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