Blue Mountain sees record enrollment

BLUE MOUNTAIN — For the first time in the 137-year history of Blue Mountain College (BMC), enrollment has reached 500 students.

“This is a significant milestone for the college,” said Dr. Bettye Rogers Coward, BMC president, who noted the 500 students represent a 7 percent increase above a year ago. “We had a firmly established vision for the college and we have been very focused in our efforts. Many people have worked hard to make this happen, and the students and families in our area have responded.”

Maria Teel, director of admissions, said enrollment has been climbing steadily since she began recruiting for BMC in 2003.

“You could really see it pick up in 2005 when we announced we were going coeducational,” Teel said. “From then on it was easier to recruit, especially at all the college fairs. Then when we added men’s sports programs in 2007, that really attracted a lot of attention.”