Student Affairs Retention Plan

The Division of Student Affairs is committed to fostering a sense of belonging for all students and impacting student retention at WSU.The retention plan seeks to provide a structured plan of action as well as a streamlined reporting process.

Retention Image

Text Version of Image Above

Purpose 1

Purpose 1

Enhance student retention - This plan will develop a comprehensive 'roadmap' of tailored retention strategies and actions. This roadmap will serve as a guiding resource for Student Affairs staff, empowering them to make informed decisions to support individual student needs and department-specific goals.

Purpose 2

Purpose 2

Capture the impact - We know the work we do has an impact on the students we serve. But by establishing a standard, and gathering and analyzing data on the outcomes of our initiatives, we can showcase our work to the broader campus community.

Purpose 3

Purpose 3

Deeper Understanding - We seek to understand the relationship between student belonging and retention within Student Affairs. Through rigorous examination and assessment, we aim to identify effective practices that foster a sense of belonging among students, ultimately, leading to improved retention rates.

Overview

  • Our Primary Retention Strategy is "Student Belonging" which has been operationalized through EAB's Five Components of student Belonging: Seamless Student Experiences, mental health & well-being, Active & Engaged Learning, Co-Curricular & Social Engagement, and Staff Mentoring & Support.
  • Each Component will be measured and assessed through specific indicators - the indicators will be the 6 standard questions. (See for model)
  • The 6 standard questions will be measured on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree
  • Data will be compiled and analyzed to show the relationship between each component and retention across the division and shared via an annual Student Affairs Retention Impact Report. Through statistical analysis, we will be able to determine a positive or negative relationship and if that relationship is statistically significant.
  • Department-specific reports may be provided by request.
  • Each department will be given a customized template outlining its specific retention strategies and metrics that may be used in FY24 Annual Reports.
  • The only data that will be requested divisionally are the responses to the 6 standard questions.
  • Data will be requested semesterly. A form will be sent after the conclusion of each semester asking what population was surveyed, and what platform was used to collect data.
  • It is recommended that all surveys and evaluations be conducted via Baseline.
  • A question bank of all the standard questions is available onBaseline to incorporate into assessment & event evaluations
  • Reach out to Emily Guthrie (emily.guthrie@wichita.edu) with any questions.

 

Connecting Every Student

Survey Data from Accademic Year 2023-2024

Overall % of student connected to the division

  • 94.3% of FTIC
  • 48.9% of First Gen
  • 50.56% of International
  • 39.9% Graduate Students
 

Students who were connected reported:

  • 70% More likely to continue at WSU because of this experience.
  • 75% This experience positively impacted my overall experience at WSU.
  • 73% This experience helped me feel connected to the WSU Community.
  • 74% This experience positively impacted my mental health and well-being.
  • 77% This experience positively contributed to my learning and development at WSU.
  • 74% This experience made me feel accepted and included.