Roanoke College revived its varsity football program after more than 80 years, joining a wave of small colleges adding the sport to attract students, especially men. Research shows football can bring a short-term enrollment bump, but long-term gains are uncertain.

Across the nation, community colleges are showing what's possible when design keeps pace with mission.

As Trump pressures elite universities, HBCUs are seeing more Black students drawn to campuses that affirm their history and identity. But limited financial aid remains a major challenge.