Strong momentum behind University’s transformation plan
Yesterday was a pivotal day for universities and colleges across the country, with a national deadline for admitted students to commit to their institution of choice — and it was a banner day at Clark University. At this point, 625 students who would enroll in the incoming Class of 2030 have completed their deposits, a 35% increase over last year. The results demonstrate very strong appeal among prospective students and the building momentum behind the University’s ongoing transformation efforts. They come at a time when national demographic trends are driving a sharp decline in the college-age population.
“This has been an unusually intense and competitive year for undergraduate admissions, and I am extremely proud of the hard work across the University to enroll a strong, vibrant incoming class,” said President David Fithian ’87. “Clark is such a special place, with exceptional academics, unique hands-on experiential learning, and a community that is deeply connected to one another and our world. It is exciting to see so many prospective students drawn to what we offer.”
Lukman Arsalan, dean of undergraduate admissions and financial assistance, led the recruitment process. He noted the wide range of backgrounds and interests among the students who are choosing to join Clark, with 34 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and 29 countries represented, and 21% being the first in their family to attend college.
“Across the country and around the globe, we had the privilege of getting to know this incoming class in meaningful and personal ways,” Arsalan said. “They are an amazing cohort of talented students who embody Clark’s spirit of challenging convention and changing our world. I cannot wait to celebrate all of their accomplishments throughout their Clark journey. I am deeply grateful to the entire University community for extending such a warm embrace to our prospective students and demonstrating the power of a Clark education.”
President Fithian pointed to the University’s ongoing work to excel in an increasingly unpredictable higher education environment as one significant draw for prospective students and their families. For the past year, Clark University has been advancing a strategic transformation plan to strengthen the alignment between the University’s academic programming, students’ needs and interests, and the current and emerging job market.
For undergraduate students, the enhancements are embodied in The Clark Experience that ensures every student leaves Clark with the preparation, creativity, and tenacity to succeed on whatever path they choose. New majors have been introduced in key areas of academic strength at Clark, including through the School of Climate, Environment, and Society, which launched last fall. New mentorship and career development offerings available to incoming students include the Shaich Scholars and Penn Scholars programs that give direct access to high-profile leaders and practitioners. And through innovative coursework and research, undergraduates are inspired and challenged to learn about and solve real-world problems, working closely with faculty, alumni, and outside experts.
“There is so much energy and momentum on our campus, with laser focus on providing for our students a truly exceptional college experience that harnesses the very best Clark has to offer. These enrollment results are a testament to those efforts,” said Fithian. “On behalf of our University community, I extend a heartfelt Clarkie welcome to our outstanding Class of 2030.”
