“It’s hard to imagine a better year”

University of Illinois Springfield chancellor Janet Gooch (pictured) has something to smile about this fall.

Just over a year into her job, Gooch announced Monday a fall enrollment of 4,661, up from 4,198 at this time last year.

“Any increase is the goal,” Gooch (pictured) told WTAX News, “but certainly eleven percent exceeded our expectations.

“It’s hard to imagine a better year.”

Gooch said the increase can be attributed to such factors as UIS joining the Common App and customizing financial aid.

UIS’ high-water mark for enrollment is 5,431 in fall 2014.