Stephen F. Austin State University has reported a spring student enrollment of 12,029, the highest spring semester enrollment in the university's history.

The number of SFA students attending classes grew by 7.2 percent or 803 students between spring 2009 and spring 2010, marking the eighth consecutive reporting period with an enrollment increase. The highest previous SFA spring enrollment was recorded in 1984 with a headcount of 11,886.

"The growth we are experiencing at SFA is the result of improved and expanded initiatives in both the areas of recruiting and retention, as well as a concentrated effort from all areas of the university to keep recruiting and retention activities at the forefront of our mission," said Monique Cossich, executive director of enrollment management.

A new freshman residence hall and Freshman Success Center set to open in fall 2011 will augment the first-year experience for many SFA students and enhance recruitment and retention efforts.

SFA President Baker Pattillo credited the enrollment increase to hard work by employees in all areas of the university. "There is a concerted effort from every department on campus to recruit top-quality students to SFA," he said.

"I would like to express my appreciation to our enrollment management team, as well as administrators, faculty and staff members from across campus. Their dedication has led to the increasing enrollment we are currently experiencing."