Highest spring enrollment ever
The economy may be in turmoil, but enrollment at Pellissippi State has never been better. In recently released figures, the College reports that student numbers for spring semester are 8,417—an increase of 2.77 percent over last year.
That is also the highest spring attendance in the history of the school, which was established in 1974 as State Technical Institute at Knoxville. The College has broken several enrollment records in recent semesters.
“We are certainly pleased that Pellissippi State continues to be an excellent educational value to our students,” said President Allen Edwards.
The latest increases in student numbers are, in part, related to the economic crisis, says Rebecca Ashford, vice president of Student Success and Enrollment Management.
“Anytime the economy takes a downturn, community college enrollment increases,” she said. “When people in this area lose or fear losing their jobs, they look to Pellissippi State to pursue a new career or upgrade their skills.”
The College is also recognized in the community as a high-quality, affordable school with small classes. Those factors remain constant, both for students who want to enter the workforce directly after earning their two-year associate’s degree and for those who plan to transfer to a four-year school.
“Pellissippi State is a great place to begin,” said Zach Armistead, a 2006 Pellissippi State graduate and current East Tennessee State University senior. “I enjoyed the small class size and one-on-one interaction with professors. It was also an easier financial transition into college because I could live at home and commute.”
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