Kansas State University

MANHATTAN -- Another enrollment record has fallen at Kansas State University. This fall, 24,581 students make up the largest enrollment in the university's 150-year history.

The Manhattan campus welcomed 302 more students this fall compared to a year ago.

"Manhattan is a growing, vibrant, classic college town that students want to be a part of, no matter where they're from," said Pat Bosco, vice president for student life and dean of students. "We're the No. 1 choice for Kansas high school seniors. We have a student body that's larger and more diverse than ever. Among Kansas public universities, we have the highest percentage of freshmen who return their sophomore year because K-State continually strives to provide students the best undergraduate experience."

The most diverse student body in university history includes 3,458 who identify as black, Hispanic, Asian, American Indian, Hawaiian/Pacific islander or multiracial. In fall 2012 that number was 3,379.

"Of course, I am very pleased -- year after year of record multicultural student enrollments," said Myra Gordon, associate provost for diversity. "Last year we had more African-American students than any other Kansas Board of Regents institution. This year we have more Hispanic students. We are realizing our goal of being the university of choice for multicultural students in the region and beyond. I thank everyone for their hard work."

This fall 2,106 students came to K-State from more than 100 countries. That's a one-year increase of 61 international students.

"When students and parents see that we aspire to become a Top 50 public research university by 2025, they realize that this is a place where students can set their own big goals and find the encouragement and support to achieve them," said President Kirk Schulz.