The incoming class at ABAC poses for a class picture, an ABAC Convocation tradition.
TIFTON, Ga. — Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College is beginning the 2026-27 academic year with continued enrollment momentum, welcoming over 4,150 new and returning students this fall. The figure marks the fourth consecutive year of enrollment growth and the second straight year that ABAC has enrolled more than 4,000 students.
The students represent 154 of Georgia’s 159 counties, 20 states and 32 countries.
“Having students from across Georgia, throughout the United States and around the world choose ABAC is a testament to the quality of the education and experience we provide,” said Ryan Hogan, vice president of Enrollment, Marketing and Communications. “We are proud to be a college that feels like home to students from so many different places.”
ABAC’s athletics program continues to be an important part of the college’s growth, with 170 student-athletes competing for the Stallions and Fillies this year. The total represents the largest number of student-athletes in the department’s history. The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education program is also welcoming its inaugural cohort this fall, with approximately 30 students, while the new agriculture program at ABAC’s Bainbridge site is welcoming more than 40 students.
Another area experiencing significant growth is the School of Nursing, Health and Natural Sciences, which welcomed over 300 new students this fall. The incoming class represents a significant milestone for the school as it looks ahead to its 60th anniversary on Sept. 23.
The start of the new academic year also brought record participation at Monday’s Convocation ceremony, where more than 800 freshmen gathered in Gressette Gymnasium. The attendance represents the largest Convocation audience in ABAC history.
ABAC President Dr. Tracy Brundage encouraged incoming students to reflect on the legacy they are now joining as members of the College community.
“For generations, ABAC graduates have earned a reputation for hard work, success, integrity, character and perseverance,” Dr. Brundage said. “You are joining a college with a proud history, but beginning today, you also become part of its future.”
Wendy Gonzalez, a senior Writing and Communication major, expanded on Dr. Brundage’s message, encouraging the incoming class to embrace the possibilities that come with beginning their college career at ABAC.
“Sometimes, you don’t know where that first step is going to take you. You just have to be willing to take it,” Gonzalez said. “When I look around this room, I do not only see an incoming class. I see hundreds of stories that have not been written yet.”
About ABAC
Founded in 1908, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College provides a personalized, hands-on learning experience for students across Georgia and beyond. With a strong focus on academic excellence, affordability and student success, ABAC offers more than a dozen bachelor’s degrees and is recognized for its leadership in agriculture, business, humanities, nursing, science and education. ABAC serves as a vital resource for the region, preparing graduates who are ready to lead their communities and careers.
