Randolph College welcomes record-breaking class for 2024-25 academic year

Randolph College welcomed a record-breaking class for the 2024-25 academic year. 

The first-year class was the largest on record at 267 students—a 34% increase over last year. In addition, the total new students (which includes first-year and transfer students) totaled nearly 300, which was also the largest on record.

Total enrollment for Randolph reached 816, a nearly 30% increase over last year and the largest enrollment since 1969. This is the College’s third consecutive year of enrollment increases.

“At a time when many colleges and universities across Virginia and the nation are seeing decreases in enrollment, Randolph continues to see significant increases each year,” said Sue Ott Rowlands, president. “This is a testament to the value of a Randolph education and the innovative student experience we offer.

“It’s an amazing time to be a part of the Randolph College community,” she added. “We have added academic programs, expanded our athletic offerings, and are in the middle of a $23 million renovation of our Martin Science Building. The campus is alive and thriving, and we can’t wait to welcome each of these new students to our WildCat family.”

The growth can be attributed to a number of factors. Randolph has seen a tremendous response from prospective students and families to its new TAKE2 curriculum model, which was launched three years ago. Under this model, students take two classes each seven weeks, with no classes on Wednesday.

“We know TAKE2 has made a difference in our enrollment, not to mention the success our students are having in the classroom,” said Travis Carter, dean of admission and financial aid. “We have seen increases in test scores, the number of students on the Dean’s List, attendance and more. Families see the difference TAKE2 is making in the lives of our students on campus, especially when you combine that with our small, beautiful campus, growing academic and athletic programs, affordable tuition, and caring faculty and staff.”

In addition, the College expanded its academic offerings, adding six new majors, new master’s programs, and an honors program. The athletic program is growing as well, with four additional sports (women’s STUNT, men’s volleyball, and women’s and men’s wrestling) set to begin this year.

“We are doing the right things in terms of marketing the incredible experience that is available to students at Randolph,” Carter said. “We cannot wait to welcome this diverse, amazing class into our close-knit community.”