East Central Community College (ECCC) has reached a historic milestone, enrolling a record 3,016 students for the Fall 2025 semester. This marks only the second time in the college’s history that enrollment has surpassed 3,000 students — the first since 2011 — and it represents the highest student headcount ever recorded at ECCC.
ECCC’s student numbers are up 8% from Fall 2024 to Fall 2025, continuing a trend of consistent growth with seven consecutive semesters of enrollment increases.
The college has also posted a 13.3% enrollment increase from Fall 2023 to Fall 2025, the highest growth rate among Mississippi’s 15 community colleges during that timeframe. Even more significantly, since Fall 2021, ECCC has grown enrollment by more than 25%, a distinction shared by only one other institution in the state.
“This is an incredible moment in our college’s history,” said ECCC President Dr. Brent Gregory. “Surpassing 3,000 students demonstrates the confidence that families and students across our district and the state place in East Central. Our focus on quality instruction, student support, and affordability continues to make ECCC a premier college.”
College leaders attribute the continued surge of enrollment to expanded recruitment efforts, innovative academic programs, and a vibrant campus life—all of which exemplify the college’s tagline: With You In Mind.
“We are thrilled to see this momentum,” Gregory added. “Our record enrollment shows that students recognize the value of an ECCC education, and we remain dedicated to serving our students with the best possible collegiate experience.”
Applications for the Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 terms are now open. Prospective students can apply by visiting my.eccc.edu/ICS/Future-Student.
