Lake Union President Ken Denslow delivered the Andrews University report during the Lake Union executive committee meeting on November 20, 2024. He filled in for President John Wesley Taylor who was absent due to the recent birth of a grandson. [Photo by Katie Fellows]
Debbie Michel
December 5, 2024He filled in for President John Wesley Taylor who was absent due to the recent birth of a grandson.
Denslow highlighted significant growth and achievements, emphasizing the institution’s resilience and dedication to its mission.
"Enrollment was up 2%," Denslow noted. "Head count on Census Day was up 2% over last year and 3% over the year before. Those are not huge numbers, but they’re not losses. We seem to be coming out, and that’s good news."
Graduation rates have also seen a substantial increase, climbing from 59% in 2019 to an impressive 72% in 2023. Denslow remarked, "If it is not the highest among all of our colleges and universities, it’s right at the top."
The success of Andrews’ graduates is another point of pride. "91% of alumni surveyed reported being either employed in their field or accepted into graduate school one year after graduation. That’s huge!" Licensure pass rates also reflect academic excellence, with first-attempt success rates of 88% for medical lab science, 89% for nursing, 94% for physical therapy, 82% for master’s in social work, and a perfect 100% for school counseling.
Rankings further underscore Andrews’ accomplishments. The university climbed 47 spots in the U.S. News & World Report’s "Best National Universities" rankings and earned recognition as a top performer in social mobility. In an aside, Denslow noted, "We have a long history of people joining the church, going into Adventist Education and then earning law degrees, medical degrees, becoming pastors and teachers, often becoming the first professionals in their families.”
Andrews was also named the "#1 Best Christian College in Michigan." This accolade is proudly advertised at the South Bend Airport. "It’s inspired other area colleges to up their marketing game," Denslow quipped.
Facilities at Andrews are receiving much-needed updates as well. A significant renovation effort has transformed 31 rooms in Lamson Hall, with another phase scheduled for May 11-15 and May 25-June 8. Volunteers, including Denslow, joined in the efforts. "You don’t need expertise in any trade. If you can carry buckets of trash, you can help," he encouraged.
Testimonials from students highlighted the university’s transformative impact on their lives. "Since I started to attend Andrews University, I’ve learned more about God. My faith is stronger than ever," shared a sophomore. A senior reflected, "I met God again while at Andrews. If it weren’t for the amazing spiritual leaders here, I don’t know where I’d be."
Denslow acknowledged that Andrews, like any institution, has room to grow but expressed unwavering pride in its achievements. "It’s not a perfect place, but show me where that perfect place is. Please send out the message everywhere you go that people can be proud of our institution."
Debbie Michel serves as Lake Union Communication directo and Herald editor.
