Transition to a Centralized and Proactive Advising Model
Kentucky State University is currently experiencing below average retention and graduation rates (59.0% and 22.4% respectively). Among the ways the administration is transforming the institution is in the process of advising. The following document describes rationale and process of transitioning to a centralized advising model at Kentucky State University in efforts to improve retention and graduation rates. Research suggests that the Proactive Advising model is the most beneficial model to increase retention and support first-generation, minority, and low-income students. The model requires advisors to go beyond simply scheduling classes to initiate contact with students at critical times throughout the semester and to help students develop key skills for academic, personal, and career success.
In order to effectively facilitate this type of advising, Kentucky State University will move from a decentralized/shared model to a centralized delivery model. Centralized advising allows advisors to build a relationship based on the proactive advising model that begins during the admissions process and continues through graduation. The centralized advising model features an advising team approach that includes two professional advisors and a faculty mentor per student. Each member of the advising team will be responsible for addressing specific factors associated with retention and student success.