FranU Welcomes Largest Incoming Freshman Class in University History

FranU continues to see growth across several academic programs, including Radiologic Technology, Biology’s Pre-Professional Human Medicine Track and its Accelerated Pathways. Nursing has also continued to grow, building on FranU’s reputation as the No. 1 accredited nursing school in Louisiana for 2026, according to allnurses.

Seeing so many students choose FranU is a reflection of the trust families and communities across Louisiana place in our university,” said Dr. David Bellar, president and CEO. “With 97% of our incoming students coming from Louisiana, we have an opportunity to prepare more graduates for the fields where they are needed most and, ultimately, to have them return that investment to the communities they call home.”

He continued, “In many ways, this reflects the enduring vision of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady, whose ministry began with a commitment to serving the people of Louisiana through education, healthcare and compassionate care. We are grateful for the partnerships that make these opportunities possible, and we remain committed to expanding them, so our students receive the clinical training, hands-on experience and professional preparation necessary to meet Louisiana's workforce needs and continue our founders' tradition of service.”

As FranU continues to grow, the university is also investing in the student experience. Over the past year, FranU has introduced new programs and initiatives designed to help students build community and make the most of their college experience.

One of those additions is the Portiuncula, FranU’s Student Belonging Center, which opened to provide students with a space to connect, gather and feel a greater sense of fellowship on campus.

Students at FranU should always know that they are people first, and that's really at the heart of what we hope the Port can provide,” said Rebecca Gruntz, director of Franciscan student life and servant leadership. “The Port is a place where students can build community, take care of their mental and emotional well-being, grow in their faith or simply have a place to relax and feel at home on campus. We know that when students feel like they belong, they're more likely to be successful and stay connected to their university.”

FranU’s new Student Success Team, a part of Project FRANCIS, has launched and begun expanding its student support efforts. The team provides proactive, individualized support throughout the student journey, including academic coaching, success planning, study skills and career readiness guidance.

The Student Success Team is structured to help students be successful in courses where they may feel like they cannot meet the challenge,” said Aubry Turner, director of student success. “Rooted in the collaboration between the Office of Advising, classroom faculty and tutoring, the now full Student Success Team includes academic advisors, success coaches, peer mentors, tutors and tangible resources. Working in conjunction with faculty, we are all hands on deck with our students to see them excel in their courses and cross the graduation stage with joyfulness of spirit!”

The university remains focused on preparing students to meet the needs of Louisiana and beyond while creating an environment where students can learn, connect and grow.