Radford University welcomes class of 2021

Continued outreach to prospective students and their families and communication about the many opportunities that Radford University offers have resulted in a diverse and academically prepared class.”

Kitty McCarthy

Vice President for Enrollment Management

Radford University prepares for Move In Day to welcome a projected new class of nearly 1,900 Highlanders. This figure represents an 8.5% growth over last year’s incoming class.

“We have more than 600 volunteers ready to help our new Highlanders move into residence halls over Aug. 24 and 25,” said interim vice president for Student Affairs Susan Trageser. “We’re eager to welcome the new students into the Radford Family.”

The class of 2021 represents students from all over Virginia including the Northern Virginia, Virginia Beach, Richmond and Southwest Virginia regions. Nearly 9% of the class is from out of state, including Maryland, North Carolina, West Virginia and Florida.

The class of 2021 is a diverse group, with 33% of the incoming students identifying as a racial minority, up from 11% ten years ago. Continuing Radford’s appeal to students who aspire to earn their college degree, approximately 40% of the class is a first generation college student.

Of the new freshmen who have already declared a major, 25% have declared majors in STEM-H fields, including science, technology and nursing and allied health.

The academic profile, as measured by high school GPA, increased by 3% compared to the previous year. “We’re excited to about the interest in Radford University and excited to welcome our new Highlanders,” said Kitty McCarthy, vice president for Enrollment Management. “Continued outreach to prospective students and their families and communication about the many opportunities that Radford University offers have resulted in a diverse and academically prepared class.”

Classes begin on Monday, Aug. 28. Final enrollment characteristics will be determined during the university’s fall semester census on Sept. 11.

On Sunday, Aug. 27 at 5:00 p.m., Radford University will celebrate the class of 2021 at New Student Convocation, after which a class photo will be taken. Media members who would like to attend Move In Day or New Student Convocation please contact Sherry Wallace, Director of Media Services at 540-831-6713 or swallace6@radford.edu.

Aug 23, 2017
Sherry Wallace
540-831-6713
swallace6@radford.edu