Edward Waters College, the primary Traditionally Black School or College (HBCU) established in Florida, has formally damaged its all-time report for scholar purposes. The Jacksonville-based HBCU has acquired almost 11,500 purposes for the Fall 2025 time period—greater than at some other time in its 158-year historical past.
Regular Development in Curiosity and Enrollment
In comparison with this time final 12 months, purposes are up by 6.2%. Moreover, the college has seen a 17.6% enhance in enrollment deposits from new college students. These numbers present sturdy momentum and clear intent to enroll. Extra importantly, they mirror Edward Waters’ rising popularity not simply amongst HBCUs, however throughout the nationwide increased schooling panorama.
Elements Behind the Surge
A number of key elements are driving this development. Progressive tutorial applications, strategic outreach, and efficient institutional management all contribute to Edward Waters’ upward trajectory. The college has change into a aggressive vacation spot within the HBCU house, providing each undergraduate levels and an increasing collection of graduate applications.
Management Celebrates Milestone
“This historic milestone speaks volumes in regards to the rising momentum, relevance, and popularity of Edward Waters College throughout the state, nation, and globe,” mentioned Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr., President and CEO of Edward Waters College. “We’re thrilled to see this report stage of curiosity and are dedicated to constructing on this basis by persevering with to supply an accessible, rigorous, and mission-driven schooling to all college students who select to affix us.”
Graduate Packages Sign Strategic Development
The college’s growth into graduate-level schooling marks a big step ahead. This transfer aligns with a broader development amongst HBCUs to serve a extra numerous and superior scholar inhabitants. By broadening its tutorial choices, Edward Waters is opening doorways for college students looking for each career-focused and research-driven levels.
An HBCU On The Rise
Dr. Jennifer Value, Vice President of Enrollment Administration and Strategic Matriculant Providers, credited the college’s success to the enrollment group. “That is greater than only a numbers recreation—it’s in regards to the work we’ve put in to inform the Edward Waters story,” she mentioned. “Our group has labored strategically and collaboratively to make sure we’re attracting and enrolling college students who’re able to thrive, persist, and graduate. We’re extremely enthusiastic about what this implies for the way forward for our establishment.”
Trying Forward to Fall 2025
Registration for the Fall 2025 semester continues to be open. Lessons will start on August 4, with common registration ending August 15. As Edward Waters prepares to welcome a brand new class, it stays dedicated to its mission of delivering high-quality, values-based schooling throughout the HBCU custom.