Association of Adventist Colleges and Universities Announce Fall Enrollment Rise Across the North American Division

Story by Marc Grundy

As the North American Division holds its annual year-end meeting, the Association of Adventist Colleges and Universities (AACU) has announced that total fall enrollment across all 13 campuses has risen to 21,125 students, continuing a three-year trend of growth and representing a 2.8 percent increase during that period.

Collectively, AACU institutions offer nearly 400 distinct degree and certificate programs, providing students with both academic excellence and a nurturing environment where faith and learning thrive together. Undergraduate enrollment also climbed for the third consecutive year, reaching 14,665 students, a 5 percent increase over the past three years.

As this year’s enrollment report is shared, AACU extends a heartfelt appeal to students, families, pastors, and church members to continue supporting Adventist education through prayer, advocacy, and personal encouragement. Together—with the active engagement of our local congregations, schools, and conferences—we can continue to build a strong pipeline of Christ-centered leaders who will serve the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the world with excellence and faithfulness as we look forward to Christ’s soon return.

“We are thrilled to see this continued momentum and to witness more students discovering the transformative power of an Adventist education,” said Dr. Ken Shaw, president of AACU and Southern Adventist University. “This growth reflects the shared commitment of our institutions—and our church partners—to meet the spiritual, academic, and personal needs of our young people.”

Dr. Andrea Luxton, executive director of AACU, added, “Adventist higher education in North America offers an unparalleled combination of faith, scholarship, and community. Our campuses work hand in hand with our churches and conferences to prepare graduates who will serve with integrity, compassion, and a sense of eternal purpose."