As Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC) proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary this week, the college is also celebrating an incredible achievement that underscores a legacy of providing outstanding education and opportunities throughout the Capital Region. For the Fall 2023 semester, BRCC is proud to announce a record-breaking enrollment of 11,120 students, marking the largest enrollment in the college’s history.
The enrollment milestone is a testament to BRCC’s enduring commitment to serving the educational needs of Baton Rouge and the surrounding communities.
“As we celebrate a quarter-century of educational excellence at Baton Rouge Community College, we are humbled and inspired by this record-breaking enrollment growth,” said BRCC Chancellor Dr. Willie E. Smith, Sr. “The 20 percent increase reflects not only our commitment to access and affordability, but also the confidence our community places in our institution. It is a testament to the hard work of our faculty, staff, and students who have collectively contributed to this achievement. We are deeply honored to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of workforce throughout the Capital Region."
The 11,120 student headcount for the Fall 2023 semester marks a significant increase from last fall’s enrollment of 9,213 students. The fall enrollment also includes a record dual enrollment figure of 2,700 students, showing BRCC’s continued commitment to partnering with local high schools and providing students with the opportunity to start their college journey early, while still in high school.
BRCC officially opened its doors on August 20, 1998, expecting an estimated enrollment of 700 students. Instead, faculty and staff were amazed to learn almost 1,866 students had registered, which tripled the anticipated number. Since that time, the College has seen tremendous growth, expanded opportunities, and developed numerous programs that have made a lasting impact in the Baton Rouge area.
As BRCC embarks on its next quarter-century of service to the community, the College remains steadfast in its mission to be the preferred provider of talent for a global marketplace.
BRCC kicked off its year-long celebration of its 25th anniversary this week with several activities and events. The College will hold a
Recognition Ceremony on Friday, September 22 at 1 p.m. in the Magnolia Building on
the Mid City Campus, 201 Community College Dr.
During the ceremony, the College will pay tribute to the unwavering dedication and
outstanding contributions of the faculty, staff, and alumni, who have played an instrumental
role in BRCC's enduring success. Participating speakers will honor the past years
of service and growth the college has made since its humble beginnings in 1998, while
looking to the future of the institution.
Slated to speak during the event are current higher education administrators as well
as former executives who were intricately involved in the start and establishment
of the college. Included speakers and participants are: Mark Drennen, President and
CEO of the Capital Area Finance Authority (former Commissioner, Louisiana Division
of Administration 1996-2004); Dr. Kim Hunter Reed, Louisiana Commissioner of Higher
Education; Dr. Monty Sullivan, President, Louisiana Community and Technical College
System (LCTCS); Dr. William Wainwright, President, Southeastern Louisiana University,
and Dr. Vincent June, Chancellor, South Louisiana Community College.
During the ceremony, the college will also honor its sixth chancellor, Dr. Willie E. Smith, Sr., highlighting his commitment to fostering academic growth and community engagement as he steers BRCC towards new heights of educational innovation.