Central Washington University Board of Trustees May 16, 2019 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY – Retention
Table 1 provides an overview of current CWU retention efforts. Based on national and CWU- specific research, this framework is comprised of three requirements for student retention, progression, and degree completion: 1) well-being (physical, mental, and emotional); 2) a sense of belongingness and connectedness to the institution (referred to as social integration); and 3) purpose and direction with necessary and sufficient support (also known as academic integration). Retention efforts are categorized as curriculum/courses; programs; services; or policies, procedures, and practices. Table 2 presents those retention efforts known to be best practices at institutions across the country and also at CWU. CWU has taken a multi-faceted approach to best practice retention initiatives. First, CWU is focused on addressing gaps in best practices. Examples include: • Expanding the Learning Commons to offer additional one-on-one tutoring and group tutoring to meet increased demand • Onboarding peer success coaching for students struggling academically • Increasing the number of Resident Assistants (RAs) in Residence Halls and Living/Learning Communities to reduce the ratio of residents to RAs and enhance programming • Creating a new Health and Wellness unit that integrates Counseling Services, Student Medical Services, Wellness and Health Promotion, and Recreation • Launching a Transfer and Transition Center to serve incoming and continuing transfer students. Second, collaboration among Academic and Student Life (ASL), the other four divisions, the Faculty Senate, and students is enhancing retention efforts. Examples include: • Improving systems efficiencies and the online student interface – ASL, Operations, and Students • Enhancing data sharing for financial aid support – ASL and Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) • Creating student-friendly materials – ASL and Public Affairs • Updating existing and creating new student-focused policies – ASL, the Faculty Senate, and SEM • Leveraging college alumni liaisons – ASL and University Advancement
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