WILSON, N.C. — July 14, 2021 — Barton College in Wilson, N.C., is pleased to publish the 2016-2021 BartonBold Impact Report, which summarizes recent outcomes, accomplishments, and milestones. Barton College plays an important role in the economic vitality of its local and regional North Carolina communities. During the past five years, Barton’s bold strategies enhanced the College’s growth and influence, educating students while simultaneously creating an annual $70+ million economic impact on the Wilson community and beyond.
The full BartonBold Impact Report is available at https://www.barton.edu/pdf/impact-report-2021.pdf
“Through the implementation of the BartonBold Strategic Plan, Barton College experienced exponential growth and vibrancy during the past five years,” shared Dr. Douglas N. Searcy, president of Barton College. “These achievements exemplify the dedication of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, and stakeholders who contributed to making 2016- 21 among our most prolific years to date. The outcomes of our work serve to strengthen our graduates, and, in turn, strengthen the communities in which they will live and work.”
Growth and Momentum
New programs, facilities, and services opened the door to opportunities for student growth and learning. As a result, Barton experienced its largest enrolling population in more than three decades; fundraising and campus investment grew to new heights; and faculty, staff, and student relationships thrived as the College continued to respond to changing conditions and met anticipated needs.
Campus momentum grew along with local and regional awareness. Barton became readily known as an innovation difference-maker, recognized as a source of energy and intellectual capital, contributing to the workforce and economic development of the local and regional economy. And, throughout this progress, the Barton Spirit flourished with greater vibrancy and recognition of the impact that Barton College makes in the lives of its students.
Pandemic Challenges
Even during the global pandemic challenges of the 2020-2021 academic year, Barton remained focused on advancing its mission. Barton maintained in-person classes throughout the year, further defining its deep commitment to student learning and success. And, the College’s faculty and staff carried out mission-critical responsibilities, in tandem with adherence to health and safety guidelines, thereby ensuring a personal level of engagement that students have come to expect and appreciate on Barton’s campus.
Highlights of the 2016-21 BartonBold Impact Report
• 12 % headcount enrollment growth since 2016
• 38% increase in freshman applications over the last four years
• 10 new or newly renovated facilities
• 18% increase in gifts to the Fund for Barton
• Raised $10.25M in FY 2019-20
• Expanded academic programs; including three new undergraduate and four graduate programs
• 81% of Barton College seniors participated in hands-on activities, such as internships, undergraduate research, or field experience.
• 35% increase in on-campus residency
Bold Strategies 2016-21 BartonBold Impact Report
• Formed a Barton Experience that is positive and impactful
• Prepared students in leadership roles to be Bold Thinkers and Bold Leaders
• Expanded the depth and scope of academic programs
• Defined strategies to advance technology
• Leveraged investments for technology and campus improvements
• Built a strong BartonBold brand
• Expanded philanthropic support through strategic constituent engagement
Barton’s core values are at the heart of the College’s mission: providing programs and opportunities to encourage the intellectual, spiritual, social, and cultural development of its students, and challenging them for future leadership and service to their local and global communities.
This mission provides a sense of purpose and boldness for Barton students to succeed.
To learn more about the 2016-2021BartonBold Impact Report, visit https://bartonimpact.com
About Barton College
Founded in 1902, Barton College is a four-year, private, liberal arts college located in Wilson, N.C. The Barton Experience focuses on academic excellence within a wide range of professional and liberal arts programs leading to baccalaureate and graduate degrees, including master’s degrees in Nursing, Kinesiology, Criminology and Criminal Justice Sciences, School Administration, and an MBA in Strategic Leadership. Barton celebrates innovation and bold thinking among faculty and staff as the College nurtures bold leadership development among students. Barton offers purposeful internships, practicums, and research/presentation in academic disciplines; engaging co-curricular cohorts; meaningful international travel and study; opportunities to give back through community service; an impressive array of cultural events; and diverse athletic competition among 24 collegiate teams, including the newest addition of Bulldog football.
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