West Virginia University at Parkersburg is expected to see steady enrollment growth over the next 10 years, building on a trend that began back in 2002, campus officials predict.

During her annual report to the WVU Board of Governors Friday (Feb. 9), WVU at Parkersburg President Marie Gnage said projections for the community college show enrollment increasing approximately two percent on average through the fall of 2015, continuing the growth that began five years ago.

We attribute our increases to a quality mix of programs, aggressive recruitment of students and the growing availability of on-line courses,Gnage noted.

WVU at Parkersburg is coming off a record-breaking 2006 in which it saw its largest enrollment since becoming a regional campus in the fall3,929 students.

Gnage also highlighted other milestones from last year in her report, including the colleges 45th birthday celebration; opening of the Center for Teaching Excellence; and the awarding of several grants for new program development.

U.S News and World Report recently listed WVU at Parkersburg as the second most affordable community college in the country. Gnage noted that the Parkersburg campus is the largest community/technical college in the state and West Virginias fifth largest public institution of higher education.

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Gnage also told board members advancements are being made in the way of technology, including an increase in support services for faculty, staff and students, and the addition of smart classrooms as well as software to support academic services.

We will continue to emphasize the availability of technology enhancements to support the teaching/learning process,Gnage said.

She also provided an update on facility improvements made in 2006, including the classroom tower and faculty/staff offices. Planned projects include expansion of the Jackson County Center, renovation of science labs, and new centers for child development and applied technology.

While the future looks bright, it will not be without challenges, Gnage said.

She cited funding for operations and capital improvements, possible tuition increases, a decline in high school graduates, and a graying faculty among the major issues WVU at Parkersburg will be dealing with as it looks ahead.