In an ever-evolving landscape where educational institutions strive for distinction, President Nariman Farvardin is a recognized visionary leader. For the sixth consecutive year, Farvardin has secured a spot on the prestigious NJBIZ Education Power 50 list, a recognition that highlights his influence on the institution’s growth and success. This accolade reflects his personal achievements and the extraordinary transformation Stevens has undergone under his leadership since 2011.
Under Farvardin’s guidance, Stevens has experienced a rise in national rankings and institutional prestige. Since his appointment, the university has celebrated a phenomenal 71% increase in overall enrollment, showcasing a growing recognition of Stevens’s value in today’s competitive educational environment. Graduate applications have skyrocketed by 382%, while undergraduate applications have surged by 294%, underscoring the interest in the innovative programs available.
A Stevens article announcing his ranking reports that one of the most exciting success metrics is the rising academic caliber of enrolled students. The median SAT score for incoming undergraduates has soared by 156 points, reflecting Stevens’ unwavering commitment to attracting top-tier talent. Moreover, the graduation rate has leaped from 73% in 2010 to an impressive 90% in 2023 — an outstanding achievement compared to the national average, which hovers below 50%.
Financial stability is another hallmark of Stevens’ ascent. The university boasts a remarkably low student loan default rate of just 0.4%, a striking contrast to the national average exceeding 10%. This financial prudence and a Stevens degree’s strong return on investment have solidified the institution’s esteemed reputation. The Class of 2022 reported an impressive average starting salary of $84,700, with 97.3% securing positive outcomes within six months of graduation. Such outstanding figures have earned Stevens recognition as having one of the highest returns on investment in the nation, ranking 15th on Payscale’s College ROI Report.
Farvardin’s impact extends beyond academic metrics. Under his leadership, Stevens has made significant strides in research, with externally sponsored faculty research awards soaring by 196%. This emphasis on innovation and inquiry enhances the university’s academic standing and fosters a vibrant community of scholars and researchers who are pushing boundaries.
Moreover, Stevens has been celebrated for its outstanding workplace environment, earning the Certified™ Great Place to Work® designation earlier this year. This recognition speaks volumes about Farvardin’s commitment to creating a supportive and engaging atmosphere for faculty and staff. His leadership has also garnered external accolades; he recently received the 2023 Chief Executive HR Champion Award from the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR), highlighting his dedication to human resources and employee welfare.
These accolades and achievements resonate deeply with Stevens’ mission to equip students for the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Farvardin’s exceptional approval rating of 89% on Glassdoor.com further illustrates the respect and admiration he commands within the Stevens community. His placement among the top ten on the NJBIZ Education Power 50 list is a testament to his efforts to elevate Stevens’ prestige and honor over the past decade, as he continues to lead the institution toward even greater heights.
