Saint Francis University (PA), through its Center for Academic Success (CAS) and partnership with student life, uses a holistic approach for student success, progression, and retention. CAS monitors every student through third-party applications and proactive texting campaigns. OASIS and SAGE programs offer inclusive support and peer mentoring. These efforts, along with a deliberate leveraging of FERPA to involve parents, generate an overall retention rate of 86–89 percent for freshman to sophomore students and 98 percent for non-athletes.
In response to shifting student needs and academic preparation following the pandemic, Allegheny College (PA) rebooted its first year advising model to better support student success, retention, and equitable outcomes. Grounded in the values of a liberal arts education, the revised model integrates career competencies and helps students connect their academic experiences to long-term goals. Faculty advising was reframed as a research-informed, mission-aligned (and incentivized) practice, supported by a common syllabus and consistent learning outcomes across all advising sessions. An interdivisional Advising Leadership Team now guides implementation, assessment, and ongoing improvement of “Advising@Allegheny” courses, a two-semester sequence.
In May 2025, the Washington & Jefferson College (PA) Board adopted the Adapt & Thrive Strategic Plan under the leadership of the new president, which prompted academic affairs and student life to convene two working groups. One group is planned to define W&J’s shared understanding of innovation in the liberal arts and the other dedicated to defining the college’s shared understanding of exemplary student experience. This work will serve as the underpinning for the entirety of the four-pillar strategic plan and is emblematic of the strong relationship between the two divisions, which impacts their joint work in retaining, supporting and celebrating students.
Eva Chatterjee-Sutton, Vice President of Student Life & Dean of Students, Washington & Jefferson College (PA)
Jennifer Dearden, Provost and Dean of the Faculty, Allegheny College (PA)
Gina Rossetti, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Alverno College (WI)
Chair: Mike McGinnis, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Saint Francis University (PA)