College Reports Records Across Multiple Measures of Success

Missouri Valley College announced a fall 2025 census enrollment of 1,511 students, marking another milestone in the College’s growth and deliberate focus on the State of Missouri and academic quality. The College also achieved record results across multiple Key Performance Indicators established from the administration and Board of Trustees.

Additional Record Highlights

• Academic Quality: Incoming freshmen posted an average GPA of 3.3, up from 2.6 just two years ago.
• Retention Gains: Overall retention has risen 14 percent over the past two years.
• Domestic Growth: Domestic enrollment grew 7 percent overall, with Missouri students up 4 percent, now comprising more than half of the student body.
• Online Growth: Online student enrollment increased by 18 percent from fall 2024.
• International Presence: Sustained a significant international student population that represents over 50 countries, enriching campus life and learning.
• Dual Credit Expansion: Participation increased more than 65 percent to 180 students, although MVC does not include these students in its official census count.
• Record Fundraising: including securing more than $12 million pledged in planned gifts this year.
• Graduates: Student completers increased by 29 percent from the previous academic year.

A Strategic Enrollment Approach
President Joe Parisi highlighted the College’s deliberate strategy to “engineer a class” with stronger academics, higher retention, and improved financial sustainability. 

“We chose to admit students who are well prepared to persist and graduate, even as denials increased by 52 percent for applicants who did not meet our standards,” Parisi said. 

He noted that interest in Missouri Valley College remains strong. Inquiries rose 11 percent compared with Fall 2024, applications were up 20 percent over the past two years—and admitted students increased 6 percent over last year’s record banner enrollment and 40 percent over the past two years. Parisi emphasized these results stem from a focused effort to strengthen the academic community and improve long-term retention, supported by strategic scholarships that attract and invest in students with the greatest potential to succeed.

Looking Forward
MVC continues to recruit for multiple terms beyond the fall census, including Fall II (mid-October), Spring I & II, and summer, positioning the College to meet or exceed its future enrollment goals. Expansion of online and graduate programs, such as developing a Master’s degree in Exercise Science, will further diversify enrollment and revenue streams.

“Our market is challenging, but Missouri Valley College is stronger for the decisions we’ve made,” Parisi said. “By focusing on quality, retention, and strategic program development, we are creating sustainable growth that supports our students, faculty, and mission.”