Benedict College Achieves Remarkable Gains in Graduation Rates

Columbia, S.C. Benedict College is proud to announce a significant and sustained increase in its 4-year graduation rates, reflecting the institution’s ongoing commitment to student success, academic excellence, and transformational impact. Through strategic investments in academic programs, student support services, and data-informed decision-making, the College has achieved a notable 104% increase in 4-year graduation rates compared to historical averages.

“President Artis, her staff and especially the students should be commended for this tremendous accomplishment. Benedict College’s efforts to significantly improve graduation rates, with limited financial support, prove that they are a great investment. This achievement reflects the dedication of the faculty, staff, and the vibrant community that supports each student on their journey to academic and professional triumph. With greater philanthropic support, they will be able to produce eye-popping results,” said Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough, executive vice president, research and member engagement, UNCF.

From 2007–2017, Benedict’s average 4-year graduation rate was 13.7%. Today, that number has risen dramatically. The 2019–2023 cohort achieved a 28% 4-year graduation rate, with the 2020–2024 cohort reaching 28.1%, both representing more than double the previous baseline. Even the 2021–2025 cohort, at 24%, reflects a 75% improvement despite unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our faculty and staff are laser-focused on providing the best academic experience for our students to not only matriculate through our degree programs but also ensure they are prepared to enter the workforce upon graduation,” said Dr. Janeen P. Witty, vice president of academic affairs. “Our entire campus celebrates the increase in our graduation rate as an indication of the strategic initiatives and professional development for our faculty and the wrap-around services that we provide for our students to promote retention and success.” 

Responding to a Global Crisis with Innovation

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Benedict College implemented a series of targeted initiatives to help students maintain academic momentum. These included expanded virtual academic support, enhanced communication strategies, course-sharing partnerships, and the strategic use of CARES Act funding to assist vulnerable students. These efforts helped preserve the upward trajectory of student achievement even during a period of national instability.

Performance That Exceeds National Norms

Benedict College’s improved outcomes stand strong in comparison to national benchmarks. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES):

• The national average 4-year graduation rate for Black students is 29.7%, placing Benedict’s recent cohorts close to parity, even while serving a student population that is 85% Pell-dependent, first-generation, and primarily from low-wealth households.
• The national average 6-year graduation rate for Black students is 40%; Benedict’s 6-year graduation rate for the 2021–2025 cohort exceeds this average by 2.7%, marking another significant achievement.

Institutional Momentum and Continued Progress

The College’s current 4-year graduation rate surpasses Benedict’s average 5-year graduation rate over the past decade (22.87%), and the three-year mean of the current cohorts exceeds the College’s 10-year average 6-year graduation rate (25.7%). These results demonstrate a shift in institutional culture and effectiveness, signaling that the initiatives launched in 2017 have taken firm root.

“Clearly, we are moving the needle in a positive direction,” said Dr. Yohannis Job, vice president for enrollment management. “These results affirm our mission to educate, empower, and elevate our students, and they reinforce Benedict’s role as a national leader among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.”

A Commitment to Transformative Student Success

As Benedict College continues to invest in academic innovation and holistic student support, the institution remains firmly committed to sustaining this progress. With every new cohort, the College advances its mission to transform lives, one graduate at a time.