A record-breaking crowd of future Badgers and their families were welcomed to Brock University during Open House Sunday.

There were 4,260 visitors to Brock’s campus for the March 6 event. That’s 20 per cent more than in 2015 and a 17 per cent increase over 2014’s numbers.

“There was a great buzz on campus and the energy was amazing,” said Beth Natale, Director of Recruitment and Retention. “I spoke with several students who were on the fence about next year and they left Open House with a clear choice – Brock.”

Natale said she heard similar anecdotes from the dozens of Brock volunteers who made presentations, ran tours and greeted the prospective students.

“We know the campus experience makes a difference for students,” she said, noting Open House is one of the most important events on the recruitment calendar.

The majority of visiting students have been offered acceptance to Brock for the September 2016 term. Ontario secondary school students have until June 1 to decide where they will attend university.

Natale said the entire Brock community participates in rolling out the red carpet for these prospective students to showcase what Brock has to offer and help them make their final decision.

Brock’s strong sense of community, which was in full force Sunday, is a big draw for many families.

Sessions for Grade 10 and 11 students were also held during open house, to give them an early look at Brock.

All programs and services were well represented with high-energy students, faculty and staff, as well as Brock University Students’ Union representatives.

Natale said nearly 100 student volunteers participated in event registration and the hot spot tours program, and many more contributed at the academic program booths, in presentations and in athletic demonstrations.

“We are thrilled, it was a spectacular day. Everyone came together to create an energetic and welcoming environment for prospective students,” she said.