McPherson College marked a significant milestone as it welcomed the largest incoming class in its history when fall semester classes began on August 21. The college enrolled 319 first-time freshmen, which is the largest freshman class on record.
This year’s freshman class grew 35% with total enrollment up 5%. Overall enrollment was bolstered by a second year of increased retention.
“McPherson College continues to make great strides in growing enrollment despite a couple of challenging post-pandemic years,” President Michael Schneider said. “With new buildings going up on campus and program expansions, students recognize that McPherson College offers them a valuable academic experience. Additionally, McPherson College has some of the highest placement rates in the nation and offers students the ability to graduate with zero debt through the Student Debt Project.”
The college anticipates nearly 600 students will participate in the Student Debt Project this academic year. More than 400 students participated in the Student Debt Project last year and nearly 30% of seniors who participated graduated with zero debt. The debt project combines financial literacy education, employment, and mentorship building lifelong financial management skills. Participants commit to working part-time while earning their degree, and the college matches student earnings applied to their account at $.25 per dollar.
“I toured and researched other schools, but never found another program that did as much as the Student Debt Project,” said Luke Wood, a freshman from Shawnee, Kan. “The program was straightforward and easily accessible, and there is a wonderful staff available to answer questions. After paying my first semester, I can say the Student Debt Project has already benefited me immensely.”
Last year, the college matched more than $300,000 to support student efforts. Alumni and friends of the college serve as mentors who work with students throughout the year. Last year, nearly 50 working and retired professionals served as mentors in the program.
“Without the financial assistance from the Student Debt Project, I would be unable to afford college,” said Raina Decker, a McPherson area freshman. “The program allows me to prioritize my education during the academic year and continue life post-graduation free from financial constraints.”
In addition to reducing debt at graduation, nearly three-quarters of the students graduating in May 2024 had pre-graduation placements, whether starting careers, acceptance in graduate school programs, or joining military service. Additionally, 80% of McPherson College students gain internship experience during their time at the college.
This summer, the college also received substantial support for one of its newest academic programs. In June, Senator Jerry Moran announced he had secured $2.1 million in new, congressionally directed funding for McPherson College’s initiative to create an educational center in Kansas for Rural & Community Health Science. The funding will modernize key parts of the Melhorn Science Hall, including several labs, and support professional development and statewide health outreach programs that enhance student experiences in health science.
Beyond academics and career preparation, students are excited about the new campus buildings and updates. The recently completed renovation and expansion of the Sport Center added more than 4,500 square feet of space, with an additional 2,000 square feet renovated. The Boiler House, a café offering expanded lunch and dinner options will open on campus soon.
The largest building project on campus, the Campus Commons, is the centerpiece of the significant campus update. Scheduled for completion in June 2025, this 55,000-square-foot building will serve as a hub for students with new dining, a coffee shop, a campus store, student clubs, activities, lounge spaces, administrative offices, and a new welcome center. It represents the largest-ever single investment in new buildings in the college’s 137-year history.