Panhandle State Fastest Growing University in Region

Goodwell, Okla. — After regional universities’ enrollment reports comparisons, Oklahoma Panhandle State University can proudly announce that it is the fastest growing university in the region. Panhandle State’s increase in enrollment beat out Northwestern Oklahoma State University, West Texas A&M University, and Eastern New Mexico University, and New Mexico Highlands University.

Dr. Tim Faltyn, Panhandle State President, commented, “our campus-wide efforts are producing these history-making figures. It is such a blessing to be a part of this team and witness the great things happening every single day at Panhandle State.”

Panhandle State reported a nine percent increase from 2017 to 2018 and a three percent increase from 2016 to 2018, giving the school the largest growth rate over one year and two years within the region.

Due to improved recruiting methods and campus-wide efforts, Panhandle State has continued to see the numbers rise. This spring, the university reported its third consecutive semester of enrollment increases. Fall of 2018 also saw success, as Panhandle State announced that it had its largest freshman class in university history for the second record-breaking year in a row.

Director of High School and Community Relations, Jade Singleton-Reich said, “it has been so encouraging to see our enrollment numbers consistently going up as we expand our recruitment methods; I happily anticipate continuing to see increases in enrollment.”

Panhandle State’s list of accomplishments over the past few years have been nothing short of impressive. From back to back national rodeo championships, to historic enrollment increases, to implementation of new programs and scholarships, to numerous community partnerships, to national PBL and AITP championships and more, the university has continuously added to its impressive list of accolades.

Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Julie Dinger stated, “We are a university on the move. Next year brings new programs and opportunities to grow and our team is working hard to continue the positive trend.”

Many new additions to the university are expected to increase enrollment even more in the future. The Panhandle Promise Scholarship will see its first semester in the fall of 2019, giving education students the opportunity to receive a college education for free. The shooting sports complex will be built soon, giving students the chance to compete on a Panhandle State rifle, pistol, and archery team. Campus is constantly being updated and renovated, drawing in even more new students each semester.

While the trends continue upwards, Panhandle State looks forward to supporting and teaching even more students in the future.