For the first time in Milligan’s history, enrollment has passed the 1,000 mark.

This fall’s enrollment--1,014 students--was announced by Milligan President Don Jeanes in convocation Sept. 6.

“Growth is important to continue to provide the most ideal teaching and learning environment for our students, with a robust curriculum, faculty and student life program,” said Jeanes.

This is congruous with the statements made by Academic Dean Mark Matson in last spring’s trustee meeting. According to Matson, Milligan was “dangerously small,” and “at risk” if growth did not occur.

While Milligan has made a significant jump in enrollment, the increase is still not adequate in the eyes of the administration. The projected enrollment according to Jeanes and Matson is 1,200 to 1,500 students.

According to Jeanes, the steady climb in enrollment is owed to a team effort including academic and athletic programs, better retention rates, graduate programs, strategic recruitment and marketing and new diversity initiatives.  

“As far as I’ve seen Milligan handles being bigger well and has a lot to offer,” said sophomore Stephanie Wilson. Growth is fine as long as the personal community of Milligan is not lost, Wilson said.

Hailey Williams, a junior, shared Wilson’s view when she said Milligan’s growth is “good for the school,” but added that she does not want Milligan to become “so big you don’t know anybody.”