The Compact for Academic Excellence: A Targeted African American Male Retention Initiative

The Vision 2015 African American male students will consistently demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence evidenced by enhanced graduation and retention rates, and greater satisfaction with the college experience.

The Need

Program Objectives Increase the six-year graduate rate of African American males to 40% Increase the first, second and third-year retention rates of African American males Develop strategic outreach efforts to African American males in grades 7-12.

The Plan: Phase I - Outreach Develop an effective system of outreach to students in grades 7-12 –Develop Partners in Excellence agreements with Blytheville, Osceola, West Memphis and Forrest City High Schools –Establish Summer Camps in the areas of Math, Reading, Science and Business/Entrepreneurship

The Plan: Phase II – Campus Preparation Develop a two-week “bridge” program prior to first semester Areas of emphasis: –Campus operations and procedures –Meet faculty and staff –Assignment of Mentors –Assessment of Abilities –Schedule Evaluation –Academic Workshops

The Plan: Phase III Develop a Center for Academic Excellence for Freshmen Students –Sole Purpose is to enhance the academic success of African American male students Hire a program coordinator, two academic advisors, and two graduate assistants

The Plan: Phase III Programmatic Functions –Scheduling and Advising –Monitoring Student Progress –Implement Academic Success Workshops –Develop Tutoring Programs

The Plan: Phase III Programmatic Functions Con’t –Mentoring Programs –Peer Big Brother, Big Sister Program –Social and Personal/Professional Development Activities –Residence Hall Initiatives

Expected Results Graduation rates for African American males equal to those of general student body; Retention rates equal to those of the general student body; Increased satisfaction with the college experience