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STEUBENVILLE, OHIO— In an era when many private and public universities are experiencing declines in enrollment due to demographic shifts and other factors, ̽������ will welcome its largest-ever incoming class with 680 new students attending orientation for the fall 2018 semester. That total represents a five percent increase from last year and includes the largest number of new male students in the University’s history.

The freshmen and transfers join a student body hailing from 50 states and 12 countries.

Through the generosity of donors, a record $7,300,000 in financial aid was given to students this year, both for those with high grades and those with high financial need, including students who come from large families. As has become his tradition, Father Sean O. Sheridan, TOR, president of ̽������, will greet new students and help carry their belongings to their rooms on move-in day.

“Students often tell us they want to experience a living Catholic culture that points them to what is good, true, and beautiful, while being prepared for their God-given career or vocation,” said Father Sheridan. “Today’s record enrollment confirms that Franciscan’s excellent academics and strong faith community continue to fulfill that desire.”

̽������’s Admissions Office reported that new students selected Franciscan based on factors including the school’s 70 academic programs, the faith households program, mission outreaches and works of mercy programs, NCAA DIII athletics, and the opportunity to study for a semester in Europe.

To help meet the growing student population, St. Junípero Serra Hall, an all-male residence hall, opened this fall semester. Located on the site of a former hotel on University Boulevard, Serra Hall was extensively renovated to accommodate 181 male students.

“Serra Hall is a recognition of our stability as a residential campus, and it is an indication of our confidence of the future growth of our student body,” said Father Sheridan.