The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, will host the Student Success US 2024 conference from October 28 to 30. The event aims to bring together higher education professionals from more than 200 institutions to discuss strategies for enhancing student success in college and beyond. The university has reported notable achievements in student success metrics, including a return rate of approximately 92% for first-year students and a six-year graduation rate of 74%.
Conference Overview
Amber Williams, vice provost for student success, highlighted the institution’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment that promotes student well-being alongside academic achievement. The conference is expected to attract nearly 500 attendees from various educational backgrounds.
Conference Features
Designed for professionals in student engagement, academic affairs, and career services, the conference will feature over 40 hours of discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. Topics will cover a range of issues, including the definition and measurement of student success, innovative support tools, and challenges faced by college administrators.
Key Speakers
- Chancellor Donde Plowman, who will deliver opening remarks and participate in a panel on leadership.
- Provost John Zomchick, who will discuss the connection between happiness and success with Harvard professor Arthur Brooks.
- Williams, who will outline the university’s strategies for student success.
- Vice Provost Ozlem Kilic, who will address the role of artificial intelligence in personalized learning.
- Vice Chancellor Frank Cuevas, who will focus on the importance of community and addressing fundamental needs of students.
- Associate Vice Provost Krystyne Savarese, who will emphasize investment strategies targeting sophomores and upperclassmen.
Initiatives for Student Success
The University of Tennessee has implemented several initiatives aimed at bolstering student success. These include the Vol Success Teams, which offer academic coaching and counseling support; the Vol Edge program, designed to enhance life and career readiness; and the Veterans Impact Program, which focuses on assisting veteran students. Furthermore, the UT Success Academy aims to enrich the undergraduate experience for students.
Media Inquiries
For media inquiries, Maggie Palmer is available at 865-974-3993 or via email at [email protected].
Source: University of Tennessee News
