College Sees Enrollment Increases

As of September 13, the census reporting date, San Juan College saw enrollment of 6,595 students, an increase of 3.5 percent over fall, 2018. Areas that have experienced growth include new student transfers, first-time students seeking a degree and high school students.  Students choosing to transfer to San Juan College from other colleges or universities saw a 13 percent increase, while first-time students seeking a degree increased 6.5 percent – both over last year. High school students who were getting an early jump on college, rose by 23 percent over the fall 2018 semester.

From San Juan College:
Wednesday, September 25, 2019:

Enrollment is not only stabilizing, but growing at San Juan College. For the fall 2019 semester, the College has experienced a 3.5 percent increase in overall student enrollment numbers. San Juan College serves as a regional leader in education, with five campuses throughout the area, which include the main Campus, the South Campus, and the 30th Street Education Center in Farmington; San Juan College East in Aztec; and San Juan College West in Kirtland.

“At San Juan College, Success Matters is not just what we say, it’s who we are,” said San Juan College Vice President for Student Services, Dr. Boomer Appleman. “Keeping this in mind, we analyzed our processes at a foundational level to determine if they resulted in a positive experience, ultimately leading to student success. If the answer wasn’t yes, then we looked to improve it.”

As of September 13, the census reporting date, San Juan College saw enrollment of 6,595 students, an increase of 3.5 percent over fall, 2018. Areas that have experienced growth include new student transfers, first-time students seeking a degree and high school students.  Students choosing to transfer to San Juan College from other colleges or universities saw a 13 percent increase, while first-time students seeking a degree increased 6.5 percent – both over last year. High school students who were getting an early jump on college, rose by 23 percent over the fall 2018 semester.

“Through these institutional-wide efforts we are seeing positive results,” continued Dr. Appleman. “We personalize the educational experience to the specific needs of our students. Moving forward, with the positive feedback we have gained from our student body, our goal is to continue the process toward easier access to higher education, providing support systems necessary for continued growth of enrollment and, ultimately, helping our students achieve success by completing their education.”

“San Juan College was one of 13 colleges in the nation selected to serve in the American Association of Community Colleges 2.0 Pathways Project,” explained San Juan College President Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass. “Since participating in the Pathways project, San Juan College employees have worked together to redesign the college experience by structuring and streamlining the process to improve our students’ educational outcomes.”

“Pathways has helped us substantially increase our graduation rates,” she added. “When I talk with new and returning students, it is rewarding to hear how San Juan College is helping them find success in their educational journey.”

 

More from Local News

  • San Juan Co. to NM: Find Out Why Local Gas Prices Are High

    The New Mexico Department of Justice has investigated fuel prices in San Juan County under prior Attorneys General. Investigations were inconclusive, but there was relief at the pump for a brief period. “We just want to be assured that San Juan County is paying what’s fair at the pump,” said Commissioner Lanier. “With limited competition between brands, it is worth checking out.”

  • Suspect Sought in July 4th Fatal Shooting

    Deputies responded to reports of a shooting and located 18-year-old Elihue Vialpando, who had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. A second victim, Jack Chavez, suffered a gunshot wound to his leg and was transported to San Juan Regional Medical Center for treatment. Witness statements revealed Vialpando brandished a pistol and fired rounds earlier in the night, but based on the timeline of events and witness statements, did not support actions by Thomas Vigil.

  • Authorities Search for DWI Treatment Center Escapee

    The suspect escaped during Sunday afternoon church services. He asked to go to the bathroom and never returned, immediately initiating a count and search of the facility. This is the first escape in the 31-year history of the jail-based treatment center.

  • Farmington Man Sentenced on Child Porn Conviction

    Earlier this week, Jacob Marriott was sentenced after pleading guilty to 4 counts of Manufacturing of Child Pornography (2nd Degree Felony), 1 count of Possession of Child Pornography (4th Degree Felony), and 2 counts of Voyeurism of a Child Under 18 (3rd Degree Felony).

  • Colorado Business Expands in Farmington

    NM-backed expansion expected to generate more than $22 million economic impact

  • 2026 NM Primary Local (Unofficial) Results

    We'll be updating this page with results throughout the evening on Tuesday, June 2, 2026: These are the unofficial results of the contested NM Primary races in San Juan County on June 2, 2026:

On KSJE Now:

KSJE Radio App

Get the KSJE Radio App

  • Available on the App Store
  • Available on Google Play

Today's Weather

  • Farmington, NM

    Thundershower

    High: 91°F | Low: 64°F

  • Durango, CO

    Thundershower

    High: 91°F | Low: 59°F

  • Shiprock, NM

    Thundershower

    High: 95°F | Low: 66°F

  • Cortez, CO

    Thundershower

    High: 91°F | Low: 61°F

  • Santa Fe, NM

    Thundershower

    High: 88°F | Low: 61°F