University of Mount Olive has record number of students
By Staff Reports
Published in News on September 21, 2014 1:50 AM
MOUNT OLIVE -- The University of Mount Olive has a set a new record.
The college has enrolled 969 traditional students -- 37 more than last year this time.
In addition to its traditional student population, the university has an enrollment of more than 2,200 students in its working adult student population within its eight eastern North Carolina locations.
"This year's increase in new student enrollment, which included more out-of-state students than last year, as well as a very good representation from Wayne and surrounding counties, is one more step in our plan to increase our daytime enrollment," said Dr. Barbara Kornegay, vice president for enrollment. "Our admissions team has strong leadership, and the faculty and staff did an outstanding job with Admitted Student days and new transfer advisement."
Mrs. Kornegay attributes the rise in enrollment to several factors including an increased appeal of agriculture education and agribusiness as majors.
It probably didn't hurt that the institution had a minimal tuition increase, she said.
The North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities rates UMO as the fourth most affordable private college in North Carolina.
The university had only a 3 percent increase in tuition this year.
"I have spent over 40 years in higher education, working in both the public and private sectors," said Dr. Philip P. Kerstetter, UMO president. "Based on experience, I know that private higher education is a treasure, although it is sometimes overlooked or misunderstood.
"Often people simply assume that they cannot afford to attend a private college or university when, in fact, it may be one of the most affordable choices for them to pursue a four-year degree, and especially given reductions in financial aid at both the state and federal levels."
Nearly all of the traditional students at the university, about 95 percent, receive some type of financial aid, said Katrina Lee, director of financial aid.
Mrs. Kornegay said that students and their families should consider the cost of a college education as an investment that provides personal and financial dividends for a lifetime.