In 2009 Xavier University in New Orleans established its “Out the Door in 4” campaign. The goal of the initiative was not only to increase retention and graduation rates but to push students to finish college in the traditional four-year period.
The program includes careful tracking and monitoring or each student’s progress, educational support services such as tutoring and workshops on time management and study skills.
The university reports that the initiative has achieved a great deal of success. Of the 24 students that joined the program in 2009, seven graduated this May, another six are on pace to graduate in December or next May and five others are enrolled in the university’s College of Pharmacy.
The five-year graduation rate of these students is expected to be 70 percent compared to an overall five-year graduation rate of 43 percent at Xavier.
It is always wonderful to hear success stories about African American students success. Currently, I’m conducting a research project on the graduation rate and retention of African American males specifically in Ivy League institutions. I welcome an opportunity hear or receive more information about your “Out the Door in 4” initiative.
Best,