A difference of about 60 students boosted Lee University’s enrollment to 4,147 this year, another record-breaking figure for the institution, while U.S. News and World Report named Lee a “top college” for the sixth year straight.

In the magazine’s 2009 edition of America’s Best Colleges, Lee was ranked among America’s best master’s universities in the south, along with schools like MTSU, Tennessee Tech, Lipscomb, Belmont, Appalachian State and the Citadel.

When registration ended Sept. 3, the school announced a student population of 4,147 students, up from 4,086 last year, Lee’s student body is bigger than ever. It has more than tripled in size from the 1,214 students enrolled in 1986.

Admitted freshmen also broke an enrollment record this year. Up from 788, Lee admitted 848 new freshmen students this fall, 60 more than last year.

“Lee is becoming more and more attractive,” said Vice President of Administration Gary Ray. “And with a president that dreams big, a dream shared by faculty and staff, this is a huge achievement.”

Another big dream by Lee faculty and staff has been fulfilled. Students from all 50 states are represented at Lee this year. Ray said it is a great thing when a school is shared with students from all parts of the country.

“This brings a great diversity to the classroom,” Ray said, “which is a good learning experience for everyone.”

Lee also has students representing 47 countries.

“We are literally represented around the world,” Ray said, “We are very pleased to have that kind of interest.”