Student-centered strategy drives Lynn University's growth

Since launching its Lynn 2025 strategic plan in 2018, Lynn University's intentional growth strategies have increased overall enrollment by 14% to over 3,550 students and raised undergraduate retention by six percentage points to 77%—signaling institutional balance and paving a clear path for Lynn's future. 

Vice President for Enrollment and University Advancement Gareth P. Fowles credits the growth to the university's student-centered philosophy.  

"Our enrollment growth is the result of student-focused initiatives that provide students with a robust and engaging academic, social and cultural experience," said Fowles. "The admission team is building authentic relationships with prospective families and community-based organizations who believe in what we are offering and trust us to prepare students for today's ever-evolving environment."

A strategic enrollment management approach, coupled with expanded and enhanced support systems for students, is resulting in more students around the world interested in becoming part of the Lynn community. The university seamlessly aligns its admissions, financial aid and student success teams to build connections with high school and independent counselors, helping to recruit students from key markets who reflect Lynn's core values.

"Our graduation rate has increased by 10% since 2018, which is a testament to the value students and families are receiving from a Lynn education. This intentional approach reflects a commitment to expanding academic and social programs, facilities and wellness support—while staying true to our mission of providing a personalized education that empowers every student to reach their full potential,” said Fowles.

To accommodate growing enrollment, Lynn is expanding its housing capacity with the addition of Banyan Residence Hall. The university is also investing in key academic and wellness areas. A larger airplane fleet is creating more hands-on learning opportunities for students in the fast-growing Burton D. Morgan College of Aeronautics, where applications surged by 42% from 2024 to 2025. At the same time, the Snyder Center for Health and Wellness—focused on fitness and counseling services—reflects Lynn’s continued commitment to student well-being, made possible through the support of generous donors.

Faculty engagement remains a cornerstone of student success at Lynn. Known for their dedication, professors play an active role in attracting and retaining students—from the moment they arrive to the day they graduate. They go beyond traditional teaching by guiding students in how to find, understand and apply knowledge through real-world, hands-on experiences. This commitment shows in recent graduating classes, which include national debate champions and student teams behind high-profile marketing campaigns in national advertising competitions.

Student applications to Lynn rose by 6%—with over 8,000 applicants this year—allowing Lynn's Admission office to build an incoming class for Fall 2025 that is boundlessly talented and academically prepared to become Fighting Knights. As a fitting tribute to the tireless efforts of the enrollment management team and the entire university community, the total enrollment for Fall 2025 became the largest in the university's history.

"We’re sustaining our growth trajectory by being intentional with our enrollment approach," said Fowles. "This is being accomplished by providing an innovative and relevant academic experience, expanding online opportunities and enrolling students who are making a positive impact on their peers and the Lynn community."

Flexibility and innovation in academic programming continue to drive Lynn’s sustainable growth, particularly through its online and graduate offerings. Collaborations with external partners, expanded digital marketing and flexible options for working adults have helped Lynn double its undergraduate online enrollment. Graduate programs also play a key role in the university’s mission, with growing interest in certificate programs that offer targeted, career-focused upskilling opportunities.

"We're seeing graduate enrollment respond to economic trends and fluctuations, but our flexible, high-demand programs—such as our clinical mental health counseling and various certificate offerings—continue to be most appealing to students," said Fowles. "Many of our own undergraduates remain with us for graduate school, which speaks volumes about their experience and value they see at Lynn in the long run."