Final enrollment numbers are in, and Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) has officially achieved the largest student body in its history, with nearly 5,800 students enrolled for Fall 2025. This confirmed total far exceeds earlier projections and marks another defining milestone in LSCO’s record-breaking growth and transformation.
Following a preliminary report in September indicating enrollment had surpassed 4,500 students, the college’s final headcount underscores the continued momentum behind its expanding dual credit programs, workforce training initiatives, and university partnerships.
“This growth reflects more than numbers. It reflects transformation,” said Dr. Wendy Elmore, President of Lamar State College Orange. “Our students are changing their lives, our faculty and staff are changing communities, and together, we’re building a future that’s bright Orange. Every partnership we forge and every program we expand reflects our commitment to opening doors of opportunity for Gators across the state of Texas.”
Much of LSCO’s historic growth stems from the rapid expansion of dual credit programs with school districts, giving high school students the opportunity to earn college credits while completing their secondary education. These opportunities have strengthened regional pipelines and positioned LSCO as a leader in early college access across East and Southeast Texas.
The college also continues to see significant enrollment gains through new partnerships with Texas State University, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), and the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD). These collaborations create seamless transfer pathways, workforce upskilling, and access to higher education for diverse and underserved populations.
“Partnerships are the heartbeat of our growth,” said Kristin Walker, Associate Vice President for Statewide Partnerships. “By working hand in hand with high schools, universities, and state agencies, we’re expanding educational access and creating seamless pathways for students to succeed—no matter where they begin their journey.”
LSCO’s record enrollment comes at a time of major campus growth, including the completion of the new 55,000-square-foot Academic Building, the renovation of the historic First Baptist Church of Orange into the new Student Success Center, and the expansion of high-demand technical programs across Southeast Texas.
“Our growth reflects our ability to listen and respond,” said Dr. Tracy Skopek, Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. “We continually refine our curriculum to meet the needs of students and employers across Southeast Texas. This record enrollment is proof that students recognize the value of an education that leads directly to opportunity.”
With more than 70 percent of students identifying as first-generation college students, LSCO continues to deliver on its mission of accessibility, affordability, and community impact.
“As we celebrate this historic moment, we do so knowing that our work is far from done,” President Elmore added. “Our growth reminds us that the students we serve believe in the power of education and we are proud to be the bridge to their bright, Orange future. Their future is our focus.”
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