By Steve Huffman

Salisbury Post

This year's freshman class at Livingstone College totals close to 500, perhaps the largest in school history.

The students began moving into dormitories earlier this week and should be settled by the time classes start Monday.

"We're expecting one of the largest, if not the largest, freshman class we've ever had," said State Alexander, one of the school's vice presidents.

Of the 500 incoming freshmen, Alexander said, "That's a huge number."

To put the number into perspective, it should be noted that a year ago, Livingstone's total enrollment was 907. The school's enrollment has never been far greater than 1,000 students.

Alexander said Livingstone's freshman class typically totals about 300.

He said there are a number of reasons for the increase, most of which are tied to the school's president, Dr. Jimmy Jenkins.

Alexander said that over the past year, school officials have made a concerted effort to market the school to high school students and their parents.

He said those officials have made themselves available to speak at high schools and churches about all that Livingstone offers.

Alexander noted that all incoming freshmen must sign a student contract. The contract requires students to register to vote within 60 days. It also requires them to become active on campus and in the community and become trained in CPR.

"They're all things related to becoming a well-rounded student," Alexander said of the contract. "They've got to sign. They've got to agree to do these things."

He noted that Jenkins has toughened the student dress code. Nowadays, at Livingstone, students won't be found wearing doo-rags and the like.

Alexander said that while the majority of Livingstone's students come from North Carolina and South Carolina, others come from across the rest of the United States as well as several foreign countries.

Alexander said one of the few drawbacks to the school's popularity increase is that since all freshmen are required to live on campus, dormitory space is at a premium.

He said the school has only about 650 dormitory beds, meaning housing for upperclassmen is being sought throughout the community.

But it's a good problem to have, Alexander said.

"We have great expectations for this class," he said. "It's exciting to witness this change and be a part of it."