Southern Arkansas University Enjoys Another Record Freshman Class

Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia has continued its long-running growth trend this fall with at least five new enrollment records, including the University’s largest freshman class for the fifth consecutive year.

In a Thursday Press Release, it was reported that approximately 870 freshmen chose SAU this fall, up from last year’s all-time record. This group of students led to SAU’s all-time largest sophomore class. The overall undergraduate enrollment surpassed record numbers at around 3,450, according to Dr. Trey Berry, SAU president.

"We feel very fortunate that students continue to choose SAU, not only for our dynamic academic programs, but also because of our commitment to a campus-wide 'culture of caring,'" said Berry.

Also increasing this year were students choosing to live on campus, with SAU residence halls being home this fall to more than 1,850 students. The increase from last year’s residential record of 1,764 was made possible by the opening of two new residence halls this August, Eichenberger Hall and Burns-Harsh Hall, both named in honor of passionate benefactors of SAU. Other campus improvements occurred over the summer to prepare for the growth, including a cafeteria expansion, moving of the tutoring center to the centralized library, and the main throughway being converted to a boulevard for improved pedestrian and cyclist safety and enjoyment.

Finally, the SAU Honors College incoming class is the largest in the organization’s history. The program allows diverse students to take classes together, travel, and live in Honors Hall.

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