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APUS Experiences a Surge in Student Organization Participation

The American Public University System (APUS) is proud to announce an impressive increase in student engagement through its numerous organizations. In 2025, nearly a quarter of active students—23%—were involved in various co-curricular programs, driving a vibrant community dedicated to connection, leadership, and belonging.

Since its inception, more than 72,000 students have participated in over 75 student-run organizations at APUS. Among the most notable is the Historical Studies Honor Society, with Lew Taylor as its president emeritus, highlighting the significance of scholarship and community among its members. Taylor states, "Being surrounded by others who share that commitment is both energizing and grounding." The Society represents the intersection of curiosity and determination, an ethos that resonates throughout APUS's communities.

The year 2025 also saw the establishment of seven new organizations, further diversifying the offerings available to students. Prominent among these are the Society of Collegiate Leadership and Achievement, which gained 850 new members, and the SALUTE Honor Society, welcoming 400 members. These additions are seen as a testament to APUS's commitment to nurturing student engagement and leadership across various interests and fields.

Recent data reveals that students who participate in these organizations enjoy notable academic advantages. Specifically, a cohort of students who commenced their studies in 2024 demonstrated higher GPAs, an increased course enrollment, and retention rates that are nearly 30 percentage points higher than those of their peers not involved in these activities. These findings underline the critical role that engagement plays in the academic success and persistence of students in higher education.

Dr. Amanda Wilson-Echeverria, associate vice president for Student and Alumni Affairs, emphasizes that "cultivating community and meaningful engagement is essential to our students' success." Her team works diligently to offer opportunities that go beyond mere academic coursework, creating environments where students can build relationships and connections that align with their personal and professional aspirations.

The diversity of organizations at APUS reflects the vast spectrum of interests within the student body. Notable groups include:

• - Kindness Club: Encouraging acts of compassion among students.
• - Paranormal Activities Club: Investigating and documenting unexplained incidences.
• - Women in Security (wSEC): Empowering women pursuing careers in security through mentorship.

Additionally, some groundbreaking new clubs were chartered, including:

• - Anti-Human Trafficking Club: Focused on educating its members about combating human trafficking both locally and globally.
• - OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence) Club: Concentrating on ethical open-source intelligence gathering techniques.
• - Research and Scholarship Team (RAST): Promoting collaboration and research between students and faculty across the globe.

LaVarn Gordon, program manager for APUS Student and Alumni Affairs, comments on the value of community in student life: "We create a sense of community, cultivate leadership, and help students connect with others who share their common interests and career goals." The program hosts both virtual and in-person events that bring together students, alumni, and faculty, enhancing the overall educational experience.

In summary, the remarkable growth in student organization engagement at APUS in 2025 not only illustrates the institution’s dedication to student involvement but also reinforces the notion that meaningful participation leads to academic success and personal growth. For more detailed information about the various student organizations, interested parties can visit the APUS Student Organizations page.

ABOUT AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY SYSTEM

The American Public University System (APUS) has a rich history of delivering affordable, high-quality, and workforce-relevant education. With over 162,000 alumni spanning more than 80 countries, APUS is recognized for its innovative approach to online learning. The system encompasses both American Military University (AMU) and American Public University (APU) and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

For additional insights, visit APUS website.