A Collaborative Action Plan for Student Retention 2009-2013

Previous initiatives aimed at increasing student retention have helped The University of Montana achieve its reputation for excellence as a student-oriented institution. Partnering for Student Success builds on those past efforts. It proposes innovative new programs and reaffirms existing programs that contribute to student retention and success.

The Guiding Principle

Student success must be built upon a foundation of collaboration among all university sectors, especially the Offices of Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, and Administration and Finance. Individual schools, colleges and departments will work to make retention a top priority within their programs.

A Message from President Dennison

Simply stated, we intend to increase the retention rate by assuring that more of the entering freshmen have the support necessary for them to progress to graduation. Success will depend upon student engagement as well as institutional support. Partnering for Student Sucess presents our vision of what we – the University and the students – must do to make that happen.

The Partnering for Student Success Action Plan sets forth specific initiatives that will promote a successful first year for entering freshmen and address the needs of returning sophomores and upper division students. With enrollment for 2008-2009 reaching new levels (over 14,000 students), these new collaborative efforts and partnerships promise to sustain our growth and provide students with the programs they need to succeed.