ASCEND Podcast

What if a relatively small financial intervention could keep a student enrolled and on track to graduate? In this episode, we explore the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s innovative retention grants program, which helps students clear financial holds and register for the next term before a temporary setback becomes a reason to stop out. With more than 3,500 students supported and an average persistence/graduation rate of 8...

What if the students who aren’t making it back to campus are the ones we should be studying most closely? In this episode, we explore how Idaho State University used a “survivorship bias” lens, institutional data, and a strategic restructuring of academic advising to better support students during their critical first semester. Discover how earlier connections, intentional advising, and data-informed interventions...

What if data could help you see every student who needs help, and help you act sooner? In this episode, I sat down with Kimberly Williams and Dr. Sarah Wray Marshall to explore the University of South Florida’s innovative academic advocacy model and SMART data platforms, showing how proactive, holistic support and real-time analytics can move student success from reactive to intentional. Tune in to hear how USF transformed da...

College isn't just about tuition; It's about experiences. In this episode, we explore how the University of Wisconsin–Madison's innovative No Fees Project is removing hidden financial barriers that keep students from fully participating in campus life. Learn how eliminating the "cost of experience" is increasing belonging, boosting engagement, and helping more students thrive from orientation to graduation. Discover why affor...

How can institutions turn data into timely, meaningful student support? The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Academic Navigator Team uses actionable data such as academic performance, LMS engagement, and student experience surveys to identify students who may need support and connect them with resources before challenges become barriers to success. This episode highlights how proactive, data-informed outreach can streng...

In this episode, we explore how Connecticut State Community College is using a Holistic Student Support (HSS) Survey to identify student needs, remove barriers to success, and strengthen engagement across its campuses. The conversation examines how timely data on issues such as basic needs, technology access, transportation, and sense of belonging enables staff to provide proactive, personalized support before challenges become obs...

In this episode, we explore how the University of Montana is reimagining student wellbeing by embedding graduate-level Wellbeing Support Coaches throughout academic colleges and culturally specific student support offices. Rather than waiting for students to reach a crisis point, this proactive model emphasizes early intervention, resilience, and culturally responsive care that promotes both wellbeing and academic success. The conv...

In this episode, we explore how the University of Indianapolis is transforming the academic trajectory of students facing academic dismissal through an innovative success course grounded in Process Education. Rather than focusing solely on study skills, the course helps students develop essential learning strategies, build resilience, embrace a growth mindset, and take ownership of their academic journey. The conversation highlight...

In this episode, we explore how Franklin College is removing financial barriers that often prevent students from fully engaging in campus life. From textbook assistance and study away funding to professional attire for internships and emergency support for Greek Life participation, the institution has developed creative, targeted initiatives that make high-impact experiences more accessible for students with financial need. The con...

In this episode, we explore how Kent State University developed the Retention Tools Workshop Series to build campus-wide capacity for data-informed student success work. Through a collaborative partnership among enrollment management, information technology, institutional research, and academic colleges, the program equips faculty and staff with practical skills in retention analytics, reporting, Excel, and strategy development. Th...

In this episode, we explore how Indiana Tech is leveraging behavioral analytics and personalized nudging to support student success. By analyzing students’ digital engagement patterns and identifying behavioral profiles, the institution is delivering targeted messages that address challenges related to motivation, belonging, confidence, time management, and help-seeking. The conversation examines how data-informed outreach, d...

In this episode, we explore how the University of Central Arkansas is leveraging podcasting as a tool for graduate student success, connection, and professional development. Through Grad Chats at UCA, students, faculty, and administrators engage in meaningful conversations about mentoring, networking, wellness, belonging, and the unique challenges of graduate education. The discussion highlights how institutions can use accessible ...

In this episode, we explore how building a strong campus culture can strengthen both student success and faculty and staff retention. Drawing on insights from Education Affiliates, the conversation examines how institutions can create more supportive, inclusive environments through meaningful feedback, culturally responsive programming, and intentional recognition of community contributions. From student belonging and engagement to...

In this episode, we explore how Eastern Kentucky University uses pulse surveys and early progress reports to identify students whose perceptions of their academic performance do not match reality. The conversation examines how timely data, strategic nudges, and personalized advising can help students who either underestimate their struggles or lose confidence too quickly. By connecting student self-assessments with classroom perfor...

In this episode, we explore how Concordia University Irvine is advancing equity in graduate education through its Future Faculty Fellows Program. Designed to support low-income and Hispanic students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, the program combines scholarships, mentoring, academic coaching, and career preparation to help students overcome barriers and succeed in higher education. The conversation highlights how in...

In this episode, we explore how the University of Indianapolis is using predictive analytics and case management to improve student retention and success. Through its Success Slate platform, the university combines machine learning, real-time student data, and personalized outreach to identify students who may be at risk of stopping out before challenges escalate. The conversation highlights how technology and human connection work...

In this episode, we explore how Southern Utah University is using early-term data and peer mentor insights to deliver strategic nudges that improve student retention. Focusing on the critical weeks between two and six, the conversation highlights a simple yet powerful framework that categorizes students by likelihood to persist and prioritizes outreach where it matters most. By combining data with human connection, peer mentors are...

In this episode, we explore how institutions are rethinking student engagement by prioritizing experiences over traditional events. The conversation highlights how intentional design, inclusive programming, and thoughtful marketing can transform routine activities into meaningful moments that foster connection, belonging, and well-being. From supporting commuter students to creating immersive campus environments, this episode offer...

In this episode, we visited with Nii Kpakpo Abrahams to explore how Butler University is strengthening student success by investing in one of its most powerful assets, faculty. The conversation challenges common misconceptions and highlights how institutions can encourage, empower, and equip faculty to play a central role in retention, especially for first-year students. Through initiatives like faculty development workshops, first...