La Salle University is making waves. Recently named “The Comeback College” by The Chronicle of Higher Education, it’s clear that this institution is on a positive path.
Like many universities, La Salle has faced challenges, but the hard work of its staff and faculty is starting to shine. President Daniel J. Allen, Ph.D., and Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing, Greg Nayor, Ph.D., shared insights into the university’s turnaround.
According to journalist Eric Hoover, La Salle’s growth is driven by four main areas: a boost in sports programs, smarter enrollment strategies, better financial aid, and new academic offerings. The addition of teams like rugby and triathlon, along with a revived baseball program, reflects a commitment to enhancing campus life. There’s also a pep band and expanded cheerleading and dance squads, creating a more vibrant community atmosphere.
La Salle has reopened two residence halls to accommodate 300 new and returning students, making 2025 the largest incoming class since 2018. To support these students, the university has appointed a new assistant vice president for student success and transformed part of the library into a dedicated learning hub for tutoring and advising.
“We want our facilities to foster community,” said Allen, emphasizing the importance of students feeling recognized and valued.
On the enrollment side, La Salle has modernized its outreach methods. Personalized communication and revamped campus visits are ensuring that prospective students feel welcome. “Doing a bunch of little things well makes a difference,” Nayor noted, highlighting how these small changes contribute to overall success.
When it comes to recruitment, La Salle is now focusing on students who are genuinely interested in their key majors, rather than casting a wide net. This targeted approach has shown promising results, especially when combined with timely financial aid offers.
New degree programs, such as sport management and cybersecurity, are attractive for students looking to enter growing fields. The launch of the Miguel Campos School, featuring several associate degree programs, further expands access to higher education for a diverse group of students.
Overall, La Salle University is positioning itself for ongoing success. As President Allen stated, “We feel great about the progress we’ve made and are clear-sighted about the work that we still have left to do.”
In this competitive landscape, it’s clear that schools like La Salle are adapting to meet the needs of today’s students, setting a strong foundation for future growth.
For more insights on higher education trends, check out resources from the National Center for Education Statistics.
