BU Finds Increased Enrollment Energizing

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Elle Gunter.

Despite potential challenges created by Bluefield University’s traditional student enrollment growth, faculty and staff continue to serve students.

“I have noticed a positive energy on campus,” said Chris Shoemaker, assistant professor of communications. “On the administrative side, I think employees are encouraged by the new leadership of President Peterson and excited to see enrollment increasing.”

“On the student side,” Shoemaker added, “I see more students engaged in chapel and other student activities on campus.”

BU’s traditional enrollment in fall 2025 was up 24 percent, the highest since 2018.

“Several factors contributed to our increase in enrollment,” said BU President Steve Peterson. “The first is the outstanding work done by our admissions teams. They are doing a great job working with prospective students and helping them choose Bluefield for their studies.”

“Additionally, we have a more intentional outreach with high‐school partnerships, athletics recruiting, and digital marketing that is spreading the Bluefield story,” Dr. Peterson added.

Katie McDaniel, director of Student Life, notes that student housing is currently at 89 percent capacity on campus. Although population growth can create problems, McDaniel views it in a different light.

“The increase in overall student population can sometimes be seen as a challenge in my role,” McDaniel said, “but I see it as a puzzle that I cannot wait to start to put together.”

Students and faculty both have noted more activity in the residence hall. An added benefit for employees this year is free lunch. That combined with growing student numbers has led to increased numbers and longer lines in the cafeteria — a challenge Food Services is tackling by considering alternative options for serving food.

Campus Safety spoke about the impact of enrollment growth and its preparedness for the potential for more activity.

“The Campus Safety team is trained to handle all situations regardless of the number of students on campus,” said Gary Ruth, Campus Safety director. “More Campus Safety officers will be scheduled during special events to work as seems fit.”

McDaniel added how she sees the challenges as opportunities.

“It is such a blessing to see our campus flooded with students willing and wanting to be a part of our campus community,” she said. “I think an increase in students is an increase in the opportunity for lifelong friendships, better connections, and overall campus morale.”