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 able to identify at-risk students, personalize support, and intervene early. This episode offers a practical look at how institutions can use timely insights and targeted engagement to help more students stay on track and succeed.

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 offers practical strategies for building engagement that lasts, showing how memorable experiences can drive student satisfaction, persistence, and success.

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-year summits, and fellowship programs, Butler has built a culture that prioritizes academic belonging and classroom engagement. This episode offers practical ideas for fostering collaboration, deepening faculty involvement, and transforming the classroom into a cornerstone of student success.