Student Success

A workshop discussion at Student Success US considered the challenges that hinder retention and completion of students beyond their first year.

Research from the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond finds that two-year colleges often lack sufficient funds to provide wraparound student supports.

First-generation students are less likely to participate in on-campus activities compared to their continuing-generation peers. Intentional programming and support work can help close this gap.

To promote sustainability in student supports, Stanford donors have endowed four directorships of community centers, creating additional funding for student services and co-curriculars.

A program at the University of Dayton provides undergraduate students interested in faculty-led research with a stipend to close equity gaps in participation. The initiative has grown over the past few years, requiring intentional communication and structure to support expansion.

A 2024 Student Voice survey by Inside Higher Ed found the greatest share of students give their college or university an average rating on the quality and variety of well-being resources.

Since 2009, the massive university system has run Graduation Initiatives. The latest likely won’t meet its goals. Now leaders plan to emphasize what happens to students after they earn degrees.

New research from the Pell Institute finds that, despite challenges and setbacks students of color face in pursuit of a college degree, BIPOC learners see value in higher education. The report offers 13 recommendations to improve success for these learners.