Buena Vista University (BVU) is celebrating its largest Storm Lake undergraduate class in a decade, marking the biggest student body since 2015 and largest incoming class since 2013. University leaders say the growth reflects five straight years of enrollment gains, near-record student retention, and momentum tied to BVU’s ten-year strategic vision. BVU President Brian Lenzmeier says, “Every year, our transformational programs are preparing more students for lifelong success, strengthening our region, and ensuring BVU is building for the future.” Enrollment growth extends beyond undergraduates. Graduate programs in counseling, education, and teaching remain in high demand, and BVU’s online social work program has expanded quickly since launching last fall. New facilities are also driving student enrollment. Students moved into new apartment-style housing this fall, and the university recently opened a 7,500-square-foot Athletic Performance Facility as part of its Building Champions campaign. Renovations to athletic and academic spaces, including Grand Hall and the Dennis Young Indoor Track, are also planned.
