Chapman University is Growing in More Ways Than One Chapman University’s efforts to revamp its campuses appear to be paying off with a record number of applications. More than 15,000 incoming freshmen applied for enrollment this year, up from the 14,000 applications the school received in 2020. The boost in applicants comes as Chapman moves forward with new developments its officials say will benefit the greater Orange County community. During an April 1 event hosted by the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce, Chapman University President Daniele Struppa shared updates on the school’s new facilities. The school broke ground on its Fowler School of Engineering, Swenson Family Hall at the Keck Center last June, and expects construction on the 40,000 square-foot facility to be complete in July.