Retention Rising: How OPSU Achieved Record-High Retention Rates

At Oklahoma Panhandle State University, student success is at the heart of everything we do. Improvements in the first-to-second-year retention rate have risen by 15 percentage points over the past two years, reaching a record 62% in 2023/2024. This data proves the university’s dedication to fostering a supportive and engaging academic environment.

Retention at OPSU is not just about keeping students enrolled; it’s about preparing them for meaningful futures. Studies show that bachelor’s degree holders experience significantly lower unemployment rates and higher earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023, individuals with a bachelor’s degree had an unemployment rate of 2.2%, compared to 3.9% for those with only a high school diploma. OPSU’s focus on retention aligns closely with its mission to drive economic prosperity for its students and the region, ensuring they are equipped to contribute to the workforce and achieve lasting success.

“When we invest in retention, we invest in our students’ futures, equipping them to contribute to their communities and achieve their dreams,” said Dr. Julie Dinger, OPSU President. “Retention is a key performance indicator for our strategic plan and reflects our ability to provide an environment where students feel supported and empowered to succeed academically and professionally.”

Reiley Opitz-Waller, a senior at OPSU originally from Turpin, Oklahoma, faced challenges common to many college students, including adapting to a new environment, managing coursework, and balancing multiple responsibilities. Pursuing a Health and Physical Education degree with a minor in Elementary Education, Reiley learned the importance of prioritizing academics while balancing her athletic career, work, and personal life.

“As it is, starting college can be tough because you are in a new place surrounded by people you have never met. Additionally, the coursework is more difficult. The hardest thing for me, I believe, was learning time management skills and juggling work, sports, and school. I found it difficult to understand that you should prioritize your schoolwork before anything else,” Reiley explained.

Despite these challenges, Reiley found encouragement and support through OPSU’s resources and mentors. She highlighted the Academic Resource Center (ARC) as a cornerstone of her success, where she accessed the testing center, mentors, and tutors.

“Since I’ve been here, I’ve made great use of the ARC’s resources. One of my favorite things about OPSU is that everyone is always willing to lend a hand when you need it. But if I had to choose one person who has helped me get to where I am now, it would be Laci Unruh. She has always encouraged me to be my best self, to keep going when things get hard, and to see the bright side of things.”

“When it comes to overcoming the obstacles of academics and personal development, asking for help can make all the difference. This kind of support, whether it comes from a professor giving helpful feedback on an assignment, a tutor helping to explain complex ideas, or a mentor offering advice on a challenging subject, can make students feel more competent and confident. Additionally, using campus resources like the ARC offers valuable support, helping students in managing stress, growth of skills, and motivation. Sometimes all it takes to get through difficult times and focus on long-term objectives is the knowledge that there are people who care about a student’s success.”

Dr. Charla Lewis, Vice President of Academic Affairs stated, “We want every student to feel like they belong here and have the resources to succeed. Our approach combines proactive support with personalized care, ensuring students can overcome challenges and stay on track.”

Students like Reiley exemplify the resilience and determination OPSU fosters in its students. From day one to graduation, OPSU’s commitment to student retention is evident through its tools, resources, and community support to help students overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Initiatives like Dropout Detective, personalized advising, dedicated faculty mentorship, and engagement opportunities such as the Hispanic Student Center and Writing Center ensure that students feel supported and empowered to thrive academically, personally, and professionally, contributing to OPSU’s record-high retention rates.