Temple University's recent struggles with student retention have sparked a critical focus on improving the first-year student experience. The university's leadership, including President John Fry and former interim provost David Boardman, is taking decisive action to address this pressing issue. With a 27% decline in U.S. enrollment over the last eight years and an average annual loss of $200 million, Temple is determined to turn the tide. The internal report highlights financial pressures and academic success as significant barriers to retention, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach.
One of the key strategies is the redesign of the first-year experience, which is currently under development. This initiative aims to create a more coordinated approach to orientation, advising, communication, and student support. By addressing financial barriers and providing adequate academic preparation, Temple hopes to enhance student persistence and graduation rates. The involvement of the National Institute for Student Success and the University Innovation Alliance further underscores the university's commitment to innovation and improvement.
Additionally, Temple is bringing on new leaders who will play a pivotal role in enhancing student retention. Evelyn Thimba, Elizabeth "Libby" Wentz, and Heather Servaty-Seib will join Jodi Bailey Accavallo, who has been instrumental in addressing the issue. Their expertise in enrollment management, provostship, and undergraduate education will contribute to a more holistic approach to student success. The streamlined process for transferring credits, particularly from community colleges, has already shown positive results, with transfer enrollments up almost 100% from the previous year.
In conclusion, Temple University's proactive measures to improve student retention are a testament to its commitment to student success. By addressing financial and academic barriers and implementing innovative strategies, the university aims to create a more supportive and engaging environment for its students. As the new first-year experience unfolds and the audit results are analyzed, Temple is poised to make significant strides in reversing its enrollment and retention trends, ultimately benefiting the entire university community.
