Aggie Nation Focuses on Student Success

Oklahoma Panhandle State University believes that student success encompasses all aspects of the University, uniting our dedication to academic excellence, personal growth, and support for our Aggie Nation. This fall, the Office of Academic and Student Affairs has set initiatives designed to empower students on their educational journey.

University President, Dr. Julie Dinger states, “Student success is at the center of our mission, driving every initiative and commitment we undertake. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where each student can thrive academically and personally.”

OPSU’s retention of students who attended Fall 2022 to Fall 2023 is 53%. This is an improvement of 5% from students who attended in Fall 2021 and returned in Fall 2022, which was 48%. The new student success initiatives encompass a wide range of programs and services aimed at enhancing the overall student experience. These include:

Academic Advising Enhancement: OPSU has expanded its academic advising services with a focus on personalized guidance, career planning, and mentoring. Faculty and staff will work closely with students to ensure they are on the right academic path.

Expanded Academic Coaching Services: The University has expanded its academic coaching services, providing students with additional resources to excel in their coursework. This includes peer mentors, online resources, and study groups.

Career Development Opportunities: OPSU is dedicated to preparing students for life beyond graduation. New career development programs will provide career pathways, internship opportunities, resume-building workshops, and networking events.

Mental Health and Wellness Support: The Aggie CARE Community supports mental health and well-being of students. Our Aggie CARE Community offers enhanced mental health resources, counseling services, and wellness programs to ensure students have the support they need.

HLC Student Success Academy: OPSU began its two-year commitment to HLC’s Student Success Academy in fall 23 to help identify barriers and discover opportunities to improve student success. This academy focuses on being data-driven, designing initiatives, building an infrastructure, and improving engagement. OPSU will be graduating from this academy in spring 2024. 

Dr. Theresa Billiot, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs, added, “At OPSU, we spark new ways of thinking and responding to challenges. These new initiatives and our collaboration with the HLC Student Success Academy reflect our unwavering commitment to empowering our students to reach their full potential.”