MDCC Leads State in Spring Enrollment Growth, Achieving Highest Increase in 15 Years

MOORHEAD, MS (Feb. 16, 2025) – Mississippi Delta Community College (MDCC) recorded the largest percentage increase in enrollment by headcount of any community college in Mississippi for the Spring 2026 semester, according to the 10-day enrollment report released by the Mississippi Community College Board (MCCB). This marks the college's strongest spring enrollment growth in more than 15 years.

MDCC’s spring headcount increased by 14.3% over the previous spring, the highest among all 15 community colleges statewide and nearly triple the systemwide average of 4.7%. The college also posted a 10.1% increase in student credit hour production, well above the statewide average of 4.2%. This growth surpasses MDCC’s previous high marks of 3% headcount growth in 2018 and 4% credit hour growth in 2024.

“This spring marks our largest enrollment increase in more than 15 years, and it’s a direct result of the collective effort across our campus and community,” said Jay Gary, dean of enrollment management. “From admissions, financial aid, recruiting and advising to the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the invaluable partnership of our high school counselors, this growth reflects a shared commitment to helping students see a clear, supported path to success.”

The enrollment milestone underscores the momentum MDCC has built through intentional recruitment strategies and a sustained focus on student access and support. The college’s seven-county service area has responded to expanded outreach efforts and strengthened partnerships with secondary schools across the Delta.

“Reaching our highest spring enrollment in 15 years is a powerful affirmation of the hard work, dedication and shared commitment of our enrollment management team and every member of our faculty and staff,” said MDCC President Steven Jones. “This achievement reflects a college that is moving forward with purpose. Consistent enrollment growth strengthens our ability to expand academic programs, invest in student support and serve our community at an even higher level. Under the banner of Forward Together, we have built real momentum through collaboration across all areas of the college, and that momentum is making a measurable difference. Just as important as welcoming new students is ensuring they persist and succeed, and we remain deeply focused on retention efforts that support students from their first semester through completion.”

MDCC’s spring enrollment surge follows a 7% overall increase for fall 2025, which marked the institution’s highest headcount and full-time equivalent since before the pandemic. The continued growth signals sustained confidence in the college’s academic programs, workforce training and student services.