Small private colleges and universities have seen a decline in their enrollment for the past thirty years. Many have closed their doors, and others are merging or taking financial risks that could prove detrimental to their survival. However, there are a few who have been able to increase their enrollment despite the demographic and economic obstacles they are facing. This exploratory multi-site case study involved three small (under 5,000 students) private colleges and universities who saw an increase in their enrollment over a three-year period. Through interviews, five themes were identified. These successful colleges had strong leaders with innovative ideas who prompt change; held employees accountable with quantifiable goals; invested in new programs and facilities; used data and financial aid strategically; and developed ties with the business community. Recommendations for further research include revisiting these three institutions' future enrollment numbers which would indicate if their practices were successful despite the pandemic. Information garnered from this study resulted in a list of best practices to serve as a model for other small private institutions of higher learning. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]