On August 10th, Alabama A&M proudly welcome its largest incoming class on the hill for the second year in a row, marking another historic moment for the institution.
The class of 2028, consisting of over 2,500 students, represents a mix of freshmen, transfer students, and international scholars, a witness to the university’s rising popularity and growing reputation.
In an interview with local news station WAFF 48, the Director of Admissions at Alabama A&M, Dwayne Green, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming academic year. “We’re expecting a record year. We’re looking to reach the 7,000-student mark this year and it’s an exciting time for us,” the Director said. This confidence and hope is supported by the surge in applications this past spring.
The Bulldogs had a record-breaking 15,000 applications, reflecting a 30 percent increase compared to the previous recurrent cycle. This rise in interest is a clear indication of the growing appeal for the Bulldogs, not only among first-year students but also for those who are seeking to transfer, as transfer applications rose by 16 percent.
In the fall of 2023, the university expanded its educational opportunities through a new partnership with Huntsville City School. This program enrolled 105 students who are now studying at both schools, showing the university’s commitment to increasing access and connection with the local community.
Despite some of the challenges that students faced in making it to campus, the University community was excited by the turnout. “I know it’s challenging for some students to get here today, and some will be here tomorrow, but it’s a great feeling to see the students who showed up for this event today,” Green added.
This year’s milestone builds upon the momentum built in 2023 when A&M welcomed over 2,000 students from 35 states and seven countries as part of the Class of 2027. “It’s mind-boggling to see these kids coming in. They don’t stop! remarked Green, reflecting the excitement that spread through the campus.
Alabama A&M’s dedication to drawing a diverse and skilled student body is clear from its marketing efforts, like buying the largest billboard in Alabama and advertising in major U.S. cities to reach students interested in coming to the Hill.
“Record student enrollment is a signal of the strength of Alabama A&M and what we have to offer students and families,” said Braque Talley, Vice President of Student Affairs, during a recent ceremony. This bold move emphasizes A&M’s dedication to reaching prospective students nationwide, especially those drawn to the history and community of a Historically Black College and university.
The institution’s success in increasing its enrollment goes against the national trend. According to data from the National Student Clearinghouse, undergraduate college enrollment across the U.S. dropped by 8 percent from 2019 to 2022, with declines presenting even after the return to in-person classes.
Alabama A&M’s record numbers shine as a sign of growth and strength in a tough education environment.
As the class of 2028 began their journal, they became part of a lively and diverse community that shows off Alabama A&M University’s strength. As the university continues to grow and offer a great education, the future looks bright for these new Bulldogs and the University as a whole.