AAMU faculty and staff members listened to several presentations on student retention during the mid-year conference on January 3 in the AAMU Student Health and Wellness Center. The year 2019 carries the added distinction of marking the 50th anniversary of AAMU’s designation as a “university,” as well as the visionary start of the AAMU Foundation.
The 50th anniversary co-chairs, Drs. Archie Tucker and Allen Vital, discussed upcoming events, giving opportunities, and how targeted contributions through September 30 will assist retention efforts.
Among other presenters was Dr. Damian Clarke, the chief information officer (CIO), who highlighted strategic objectives pertinent to Information Technology Services. Key concerns throughout 2019 include the upgrading of cyber infrastructure in order to maintain IT functions during and after disasters; interactive display boards; transitioning from Blackboard to Zoom; delving into practical applications for Virtual Reality; enhancing phone services; Banner 9 upgrades; establishment of a parent portal; Queue Management System and appointment managing software; Security Awareness Training, CIO listening tour and others.
Attendees also heard brief remarks from Dr. Jeanette Jones, president of the Faculty Senate, and Malcolm Brasher, president of the Staff Senate.
Dr. Brenda R. Williams, senior associate consultant for Ruffalo Noel Levitz, discussed the importance of top-down institutional buy-in when it comes to student retention. She also highlighted those institution-specific variables that suggest the likelihood a given student will complete matriculation or dropout.
AAMU President Andrew Hugine, Jr., underscored the series of far-reaching recruitment efforts that will continue to take place through September 30. Several awards were presented to promote grantsmanship and academic excellence.