MURFREESBORO – Chowan College ended the fiscal year 2003-2004 with a substantial financial surplus according to a report to the college’s Board of Trustees by President Dr. Chris White.

The impressive surplus comes on the heels of White’s first year at the helm of the 156-year-old Baptist institution.

More than $2 million dollars in the black was the good news the trustees heard at their quarterly meeting.

The college had suffered financial difficulties before White took over as president.

In one year, the college has moved from deficit to impressive surplus.

The successful financial report bodes well for Chowan College as the possibility for more financial student aid, upgrading of salaries and facilities loom on the horizon. White reported that it would take another good year to put Chowan College on the sound footing he strives for.

&uot;With a record number of applicants for the fall of ’05, it appears that things are looking very hopeful,&uot; White said.

More than 1,300 high school seniors have applied for admission to the college for next year.

&uot;This is a two-hundred percent increase over the same time last year. An increased enrollment means even more financial success.&uot; White said.

As of January 27, the total applications for the fall semester of 2005 are 1340.

Last year’s count was 470.

&uot;All things considered, things are looking bright once again for Chowan College,&uot; White concluded.