MURFREESBORO, N.C. — Sept. 3, 2025 — Chowan University is celebrating record momentum as both student achievement and enrollment climb sharply upward, bucking the national decline many small private universities face.

New and returning students’ academic performance is on the rise across the board. This past year, the average GPA on campus climbed dramatically, with more students than ever earning recognition on the Dean’s and President’s Lists. Chowan athletic programs also celebrated success, with multiple teams earning academic awards and individual student-athletes honored with the prestigious Conference Carolinas Elite 23 distinction.

At the same time, Chowan welcomed a 13% increase in new students on campus—a decisive turnaround in a national climate where many peer institutions are experiencing 2–5% annual enrollment declines.

“These powerful gains reflect the renewed confidence in our mission and the strength of our recruitment and retention strategies,” said Chowan University President Dr. Rosemary Thomas. “We are creating a learning environment where students thrive, and these results prove that the momentum is real.”

Retention has also strengthened, with a 4% increase over the past two years, helping stabilize the enrollment pipeline. Innovative initiatives are fueling the surge, including:

• Independent single-room living for freshmen, giving students an empowering and supportive transition to college life.
• A curriculum model focused on student engagement and immersive learning.
• A new student success model designed to ensure stronger support and accountability.
• Open houses intentionally mapped to serve mission-fit students, connecting the right students with Chowan’s values and community.

Together, these efforts show that Chowan students are not just enrolling—they’re excelling. The university is moving forward with energy, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to student success.