One way to understand the motivation behind the new Global Water Research Institute at Hope College is to consider this statistic from the U.N.: An estimated 2.2 billion people worldwide are living without access to safe water.

While other types of post-secondary education help students land their first job, the 4-year degree program remains the best path to a career that includes advancement and professional growth.

Hope had garnered 1,000 deposits for the Class of 2026 by the end of May 1, the date recognized as National College Decision Day by colleges and universities around the country. Hope’s previous record was 947 deposits in May of 2012.

Hope College has announced the “Anchored Tuition Pledge,” committing to hold tuition at the starting rate for each incoming class beginning with the fall 2022 semester — and to keep it at the present level for all current students.

The college’s new Hope Forward initiative seeks to fully fund tuition for every student up front. While that’s the most tangible goal, it’s only one of several.