The Radford University Board of Visitors, at its meeting Friday, Sept. 18, commended
the university for sustained growth in student enrollment and retention.
In addition to the university’s third consecutive year of enrollment growth, President Bret Danilowicz highlighted a record-high freshman retention rate of 79.9%
and a significant rise in retention of Pell Grant students to 79.1%. He remarked that
while these measures demonstrate stability for the university, “We are not standing
still. We’re continually evolving the institution to better serve our students and
to better serve the Commonwealth of Virginia.”
"The board is thrilled to see this continuing enrollment and retention success," said
Rector Dale Ardizzone '85, M.S. '86. "At a time when many institutions are experiencing
declines, this growth demonstrates that Radford is a great destination for students
and a place where most remain to complete their education. It is also a true testament
to the skill and dedication of the university's administration, faculty and staff,
who collectively work to create a supportive environment for our students to secure
an exceptional education."
Board actions
The board took a series of actions, including the following:
- Approved the university’s 2026-27 operating budget.
- Affirmed modifications to the university’s six-year plan as reported to the Virginia
State Council of Higher Education.
- Ratified the 2026-2027 audit plan.
- Approved revisions to the university weapons policy to align with recent updates in
Virginia law.
Discussion highlights
Board of Visitors Student Representative Jeremiah Garretson presented to the board.
He is a senior from Christiansburg, Virginia, who majors in recreation, parks and
tourism. He encouraged the university to continue pursuing opportunities to promote
local and regional outdoor recreation activities, as well as partnerships and collaborative
initiatives with local businesses.
The board also discussed various plans and achievements, including the following:
- Ongoing work to establish the Radford Career Commitment, which will provide career
placement services and support for recent graduates who have not found a career position
or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation.
- Recent collaborative events to promote community and regional prosperity, including
the inaugural AdventureWorks Summit and an annual economic development and business
luncheon
- A direct admission pathway to begin in August 2027 for freshmen applicants for a Bachelor
of Science in Nursing.
Meeting materials and next date
Copies of the meeting agendas and board reports are available online, and a full video of the Sept. 18 meeting can be streamed through YouTube.
The next meeting of Radford’s Board of Visitors will be held Dec. 3-4, 2026.