Johnson C. Smith University celebrates record enrollment

CHARLOTTE — Charlotte’s very own historically Black university is celebrating a milestone.

A record number of people have enrolled in Johnson C. Smith University for the fall semester. Dr. Valerie Kinloch, the university’s president, said more than 1,350 students have expressed interest in attending the only private HBCU in the Queen City.

ALSO READ: JCSU alumni describe impact of their lunch counter sit-ins in Charlotte

“I think what people would say to me is that it’s a new era of excellence,” she said.

It’s the school’s first time in five years with a record number of incoming students.

“It’s important for us to understand how to attract students to this institution, how to create the energy, how to make sure that they are seen, they are welcome,” Dr. Kinloch said.

The school is holding a welcome week celebration on Monday for the more than 300 new students. It kicks off with a block party at 11 a.m. outside Biddle Hall on JCSU’s campus.

JCSU is taking an all-hands-on-deck approach to get students financially cleared. They are looking to raise $250,000 for their general scholarship. If you would like to donate, click here.

(WATCH BELOW: Legendary JCSU basketball coach announces retirement)