Franciscan University of Steubenville has reported its largest incoming class for the 11th consecutive year, with 1,227 new students enrolling for the fall semester. This growth comes at a time when many universities across the United States are seeing enrollment declines.

University President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, commented on the institution’s direction during this period. “This time of significant change in higher education presents Franciscan University with a tremendous opportunity to respond to the deep hunger of young people for truth and for authentic Catholic community, where they are strengthened in faith and prepared to lead with courage and conviction,” Father Pivonka said. “Each new class reminds us of the privilege we have to shape both minds and hearts. This steady growth is not simply about numbers but about forming students who embody Franciscan joy and truth, and who will renew the Church and society with their witness.”

The university projects that more than 4,250 students will be attending classes this fall. This total includes approximately 400 high school students participating through dual enrollment programs made possible by partnerships such as one with the Chesterton Schools Network. The number of new undergraduate students attending in person increased from 824 last year to 848 this year, while online undergraduate enrollment rose from 93 to 143.

Franciscan University recently graduated its largest class ever in May. The student body now represents all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and 35 other countries.

Vice President for Enrollment Management Tim Reardon noted: “Just months after graduating our largest class ever, Franciscan is now welcoming its largest incoming class. That momentum reflects our growing reach and the deep desire of students for an authentically Catholic university, one that forms them for more than careers,” Reardon said. “Here, they are prepared for the demands of family life, for leadership in the Church and society, and above all, for holiness. This record enrollment shows the world’s hunger for the truth, community, and joy that define Franciscan University.”

The start of the academic year coincided with completion of renovations to Christ the King Chapel on campus. The chapel’s seating capacity nearly doubled from 325 to 590 seats. Upgrades include a new altar and tabernacle as well as additional sacred art and stained-glass windows.

The $16.5 million renovation project concluded as part of Franciscan University’s Rebuild My Church Capital Campaign. The campaign raised $126.1 million dedicated to academic program enhancements, scholarships, outreach initiatives, and construction or renovation of campus buildings such as Christ the Teacher Hall and Event Center—a facility featuring classrooms and labs designed for nursing, engineering, business programs as well as event space.

Initial figures indicate that Franciscan University expects an 88 percent first-year retention rate—well above national averages.

“In today’s college landscape, the challenge isn’t just attracting students, it’s finding those who truly fit our mission. At Franciscan, we seek students who share our values and desire to become joyful disciples, not just for a semester, but for their entire college journey,” Reardon said. “The fact that so many of our students remain and thrive is proof that Franciscan delivers on what families are looking for: a university that forms the whole person, uniting rigorous academics with faith and community.”