ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The University of North Carolina Asheville's retention rate jumped 3 percent for fall 2025, "demonstrating students’ confidence in their UNC Asheville experience despite the disruptions brought about by (Tropical Storm) Helene (on Sept. 27, 2024)," a press release from UNCA on Sept. 12 stated.

"The increase to 75 percent indicates an upward trend and builds upon UNC Asheville’s historically high retention rate in Spring 2025," the release noted. "The data demonstrates that current UNC Asheville students feel a sense of satisfaction, connection, and a recognition of the value in their UNC Asheville experience. 

"In addition to record retention, the University set record enrollment during the Summer 2025 term, an increase of 56 percent over summer 2024. Generous financial support from the NC General Assembly allowed the university to prioritize student success and on-time graduation despite the challenges Helene presented.

Chancellor Kimberly van Noort was quoted in the release as saying, “Our increased retention rate and high summer enrollment numbers highlight both the resilience of our students and of UNC Asheville. They also show the commitment of our state legislature to support students through our recovery.”

The release added, "Helene’s negative impact on UNC Asheville’s recruitment efforts is illustrated by its lower enrollment for first-time, first-year students for the fall 2025 semester.

"Helene drastically disrupted UNC Asheville’s campus operations, completely closing the University for an unprecedented 33 days. The extended shut-down period included delaying critical recruitment efforts and cancelling on-campus tours during a portion of the Fall 2024 semester.

"Fall recruitment is a crucial time to welcome first-time, first-year students and their families to campus and invite them to consider how UNC Asheville may be the best fit for goals and careers," the release stated.