Nash Community College is celebrating a major enrollment milestone this fall. The college has reported a 6.3 percent increase in headcount and an 8.9 percent increase in full-time equivalent (FTE) compared to Fall 2024. This year’s total headcount stands at 3,145 students, marking the first time since 2019 (before the COVID-19 pandemic) that the college has surpassed the 3,000-student threshold.
In addition to overall growth, NCC welcomed 970 new students this fall, a 2.9 percent increase from Fall 2024.
The growth comes on the heels of last year’s significant gains, when NCC saw an 10.1 percent increase in headcount and a 7.9 percent increase in FTE from Fall 2023 to Fall 2024. The consecutive years of enrollment growth reflect the college’s momentum in expanding access, strengthening academic programs, and enhancing the student experience.
“This return to pre-pandemic enrollment levels is a powerful indicator of our community’s trust in Nash Community College,” said Dr. Lew K. Hunnicutt, president of NCC. “We are proud to once again serve more than 3,000 students in our fall semester, and we remain committed to helping every student achieve their goals through high-quality instruction, innovative programs and holistic student support.”
Dr. Wendy Cook, Vice President of Student Services, emphasized the role of strategic initiatives in the growth. “Our enrollment success means we are serving more students in Nash County to go on and achieve their goals. The intentional collaboration across the college from marketing and outreach to advising, to financial aid and student engagement have all played a part in helping increase enrollment. Our teams are working every day to ensure students see NCC as their first choice for higher education.”
As part of the Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) Core Team, KJ Askew, Director of Marketing & Strategic Engagement, highlighted the college’s approach to long-term growth. “Enrollment growth at this level is a strategic effort. Through targeted marketing, strong community partnerships and a student-first philosophy, we have created services and offerings that resonate with both new and returning learners. Crossing 3,000 students again is a milestone worth celebrating.”
“We have a phenomenal team of faculty who are eager to prepare students for the workforce or for transfer to a university,” said Dr. Amy Harrell, vice president of instruction at NCC. “We welcome the opportunity to educate even more members of our community to achieve their career goals and to flourish in local employment once they leave our doors.”
The enrollment increase underscores NCC’s role as a key driver of workforce development and economic growth in the Twin Counties region. With expanded program offerings, flexible learning options, and a commitment to serving diverse learners, the college continues to position itself as a leader in higher education and career training.
For more information about NCC’s programs and services, visit nashcc.edu.
