Ferrum College STAR Program Boosts Student Retention

Ferrum College launched its STAR (Student Success, Transition, Achievement, and Retention) program, which mandates participation for students identified as struggling academically or at risk of dropping out. This proactive approach aims to bolster student retention and improve academic performance by providing structured support. Early data from the program indicates positive trends in both retention rates and academic achievement among participating students.

The STAR program requires students to engage with specific support services, which can include academic advising, tutoring, and other resources designed to address individual challenges. The mandatory nature of the program ensures that students receive timely interventions, rather than relying on them to seek help independently. This strategy is a departure from traditional, opt-in support systems that often see lower engagement from students most in need.

John DeVault, associate vice president of student success at Ferrum College, has been instrumental in the development and implementation of the STAR program. He highlighted the program's success during an impromptu gathering celebrating students who achieved perfect attendance within the STAR program. This event underscored the college's commitment to recognizing and encouraging student engagement and progress. The college believes that by making support a requirement, they can create a more equitable environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed.

While the program is still in its early stages, the initial gains in retention and academic performance suggest that mandatory support structures can be an effective strategy for colleges facing challenges with student persistence. The college plans to continue monitoring the program's long-term impact and may adapt its components based on ongoing evaluation. The STAR program represents a significant institutional effort to address student success holistically.