ASU looks to enhance ‘student experience’ in retention bid

ALBANY — In an effort to improve student retention rates, Albany State University interim Executive Vice President Marion Fedrick has announced the formation of a student and faculty task force to help improve the “student experience.”

Retention is one of the University System of Georgia’s priority concerns, along with recruitment and graduation.

Fedrick issued the following campus communication Thursday afternoon:

“Today, I am excited to announce the launch of a task force to focus on how we can improve and enhance the student experience at Albany State University. The ASU Student Engagement Experience Task Force will lead an in-depth examination of the student experience, from when a student enrolls to when a student reaches that incredible milestone of graduation.

“This is the first major initiative the transition team is announcing to create the new Albany State, and students will be at the core of this initiative by serving on the task force. I want to personally recognize and thank our student leadership for stepping forward to help advance our efforts. Their recommendations will guide the institution’s focus on improving student retention and championing student success. The committee will have three focus areas:

“• First-Year Experience – enhance campus life and improve service to students;

“• Student Engagement for Success – improve student retention and increase graduation rates;

“• Student Support Services – streamline and improve orientation, advising and registration.”

Members of the task force include: Co-Chair Joyce Jones, vice chancellor for student affairs, University System of Georgia; Co-Chair Scott Lingrell, vice president for student affairs and enrollment management, University of West Georgia; Andre Armour, president, ASU Student Government Association; DeAndre R. Cochrane, senior vice president, ASU SGA; Charles L. Durrah, vice president, ASU Student Government, East Campus; Cameron R. Southerland, vice president ASU Student Government, West Campus; Wanesia P. Francis, Miss ASU; and Santo E. Nina, Mr. ASU.

The Student Engagement Experience Task Force will hold its first meeting next week and has been tasked with putting together a report with recommendations by mid-December.

“We look forward to working closely with our student leaders to improve the student experience at ASU as we continue to position the new Albany State University for long-term success,” Fedrick said.