Daemen College outpaced every institution of higher learning in Western New York in enrollment growth this year, according to Buffalo Business First.

With a 5.7 percent increase, Daemen bested Niagara University by more than a full percentage point – and doubled the gains of the next two institutions, Houghton College and St. Bonaventure University. 

The boost in Daemen’s student population comes amid a 5.5 percent overall drop in enrollment at the region’s bachelor-degree-granting institutions. In fact, 11 of 16 colleges and universities in Western New York saw declines. 

“For Daemen to see such a strong upturn in its enrollment during a difficult time for higher education speaks volumes about our academic distinction and the unique student experience we offer,” said Gary Olson, president of Daemen.

At the start of the academic year, ​​Daemen’s student population was 2,547, nearly 150 students higher than the year before. 

Overall, Daemen placed seventh regionally in enrollment, ahead of St. Bonaventure, D’Youville College, Hilbert College, Medaille College and others. 

Daemen Recognized for Workforce Development 

Daemen was also named to the “2021 Top Buffalo Workforce Development Training Providers,” an annual list compiled by Buffalo Business First.

With more than 80 courses taught by 56 instructors that qualify as workforce development – in subjects such as accounting, paralegal studies, applied behavior analysis and others – Daemen earned a spot in the top 10, placing ahead of Niagara University, D’Youville College, and the University at Buffalo School of Management.