James_September-October_2026_web - Flipbook - Page 46
evolved from a university primarily
concentrating on undergraduate
programs into a comprehensive
university offering professional and
graduate programs in healthcare,
business, and education.”
AN ERA OF GROWTH
During Barnett’s two decades
at the university, it has also grown
resources and operations that
sustain it as an ongoing enterprise.
The university has expanded its operations by more than 350 percent
during that period. Growing from
generating less than $20 million
annually to more than $70 million
per year, the university has exponentially enhanced the surrounding community through an annual
economic impact exceeding $150
million. Now enrolling more than
3,000 students and employing more
than 600 people, the university contributes to the economic stability of
the greater Gainesville community.
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The university also graduates between 600 and 700 students each
year who enter professional fields
as teachers, nurses, therapists, physician assistants, accountants and
business leaders. These graduates
have an immediate impact by filling
workforce needs across a wide
array of industries.
The past few decades have seen
a somewhat precipitous decline of
JAMES SEPTE M B E R/O C TO BE R 2 0 2 6
women’s colleges. In the mid-20th
century, there were more than 200
women’s colleges across the country, but that number has declined
to less than 40 since then, with a 40
percent drop in enrollment. It is a little unclear if these numbers include
Brenau because of its commuter
options for men but Brenau has
recognized the continued demand
for this type of college experience.
