ASCEND Podcast

Why do students struggle to succeed when universities offer so many resources designed to help them? In this episode, Dr. Kal Srinivas draws on 30 years of experience in student success and retention to explore how institutions can better support students through meaningful connections, peer relationships, faculty engagement, and intentional guidance. Together, we discuss the role of change manage...

What if “Go get involved!” isn’t enough anymore? In this episode, we explore how Southern Utah University is rethinking student engagement through personalized Involvement Road Maps . Instead of asking students to navigate clubs, events, and leadership opportunities on their own, SUU helps them identify what interests them and provides a personalized path to get there. It’s a simple shift from “Go...

Data can tell us what is happening with student retention, but are we asking enough questions to understand why ? In this episode, we explore how institutions can combine student data, root cause analysis, and the “5 Whys” method to move beyond surface-level problems and uncover what’s really driving student disengagement. We’ll also explore how closing the loop with students can turn data into me...

What if a campus job could be more than a paycheck? In this episode, we explore how the University of Wisconsin-Madison transformed student employment into an intentional vehicle for belonging, leadership, career development, and retention. From reflective supervisor conversations to leadership development and communities of practice, discover how rethinking the student employment experience can t...

Sometimes the difference between staying in college and stopping out is just $100. In this episode, I visit with Dr. Gill Hunter to explore Eastern Kentucky University’s innovative retention grant strategy, using data to identify students with registration holds and providing targeted, just-in-time financial support. Discover how EKU moved from students having to ask for help to proactively puttin...

What if the key to student-athlete success isn’t just what happens in the classroom or on the field, but the culture surrounding them? In this episode, we explore practical, cost-effective strategies for creating a student-first athletics culture—from peer mentorship and strong coach-athlete relationships to mental health support, international student services, and navigating the Transfer Portal...

What happens when financial support is paired with intentional community, mentorship, and a clear path to success? In this episode, we explore St. Francis College’s Robert J. McGuire Scholarship Program and its holistic approach to supporting first-generation students. From substantial tuition assistance to peer mentorship, career preparation, and a personalized co-curricular roadmap, discover how...

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 per...

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-infor...

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...

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 thr...

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-infor...

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 s...

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 wellb...

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...

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 st...

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,...

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...

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...

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...

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 sel...

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 c...

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 t...

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...

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 camp...