The largest freshman class in the recent history of Williams Baptist College has pushed the college to enrollment gains on its Walnut Ridge campus. Total enrollment on the main campus climbed two percent for the fall 2014 semester, and the number of students living on campus climbed even more dramatically.

WBC welcomed 164 freshmen this fall, setting a modern record for the college and marking the largest group of new students at Williams in nearly 50 years. The freshman count is up five percent over last year.

Williams has an on-campus enrollment of 511 students this fall, with a full time equivalent (FTE) enrollment of 513. Both numbers reflect an increase of 10 students, or two percent, over last fall.

“It is truly exciting to see so many new students on the WBC campus this fall, and it is always great news when we can announce enrollment gains. This just means more students are receiving a high quality college education at Williams,” said Dr. Tom Jones, WBC’s president.

The number of students living in WBC residence halls jumped from 324 to 377 this fall, which is a 16 percent increase.

“The increase in residence hall numbers indicates that students are coming from a greater distance to attend Williams. We are delighted to have students from across the country and across the world,” Jones said.

The overall enrollment at WBC, counting the Walnut Ridge campus and several off-campus extensions, came in at 550, which is down from 574 last fall.

Williams is a four-year, liberal arts college.