Addressing needs of at-risk students at Sam Houston State University
Challenge
How might we better address the needs of first-generation students and students of color on their journey to graduation?
Strategy
Six-pronged effort:
- Launched Academic Success Center to provide tutoring, supplemental instruction, and summer bridge programs for low-income, first-generation students, and students of color
- Developed FORWARD Program, a support system to empower former foster youth, orphans, wards of the court, and homeless students
- Developed TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) for first-generation students with financial and academic needs
- Developed a First Generation Learning Community
- Developed ELITE (Establishing Leadership In and Through Education) to increase retention and graduation rates for minority males through academic support, peer mentoring, community service, and outreach
- Established STEM Center focused on first-generation students and students of color
Outcome
The university is now nationally recognized for graduating first-generation students and students of color and has established multiple support networks and resource centers for these students.
Ready to take action?
Brainstorming prompts for you and your team to consider
Learn more about student support from our research
Institution
