St. Cloud State University
Plan for Enhancing Student Success
Background
SCSU’s retention and graduation rates have been issues of growing concern at St. Cloud State University. Recent public comparisons of the institution’s rates to other 4-year universities in Minnesota has compelled the campus community to consider a more comprehensive approach to improving the success of its students.
Increasing student retention and graduation rates is addressed explicitly in SCSU’s Strategic Plan under the Service Community theme. It states: “The University will emphasize and support services and activities that lead to higher retention, satisfaction and success for students, faculty, and staff.”
In addition to the Strategic Planning Committee, the success of students was the focus of planning efforts of a number of groups on campus, including Enrollment Management, Student Government Association, Academic Affairs Council, and the Faculty Task Force on Student Completion.
In response to the growing interest in enhancing the student experience at the University, St. Cloud State University President Roy H. Saigo created the Committee on Student Success, which included representatives from each of the planning groups, to develop a comprehensive plan for enhancing student success at St. Cloud State University as measured through increases in student retention and graduation rates.
The plan contained in this document was the result of the combined efforts of more than 40 members of the SCSU community. It was developed through two planning retreats and included an interim report that was shared with the campus community for discussion and feedback.
Plan Overview
Three major goals were identified as critical to enhancing student success at SCSU. A number of associated recommendations were recognized as necessary to achieve each goal.
Goal 1: Students will feel more prepared to succeed at SCSU and will feel more positive and satisfied with their college experience.
1. Develop a University-wide response to better support under prepared and academically at-risk students
2. Provide a seamless transition to University life by coordinating summer advising and registration activities, new student orientation activities, and campus social and cultural events
3. Create a university-wide tutoring center where students can go to receive help, especially in the first two years
4. Expand opportunities for students to become members of a campus cohort including the expansion of the first-year experience program
5. Conduct an analysis of the adequacy of SCSU’s housing facilities and a feasibility study on implementing an on-campus residency requirement.
Goal 2: SCSU will provide students with the information and communication they need at the right time and from the right people which will contribute to their academic success.
1. Create an effective advising program for all students that includes connecting them to meaningful career and effective student services
2. Develop initiatives to provide regular, accurate, and seamless communication with students
Goal 3: University members will be professionals engaged in the shared work of the university. They will feel respected, valued, and heard. They will be able to laugh together, listen together, build relationships, participate in the decision making processes, and offer criticism without fear of recrimination.
1. Promote a supportive campus climate that encourages engagement and respect
A copy of the full plan can be found at www.stcloudstate.edu/strategicplanning.