East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is ramping up its support for students as it prepares for a significant increase in campus engagement and enrollment. During the recent Board of Trustees meeting, university officials highlighted a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing student success and improving the overall campus experience.

One of the key announcements was the introduction of a dedicated housing agent to assist students and families in navigating the increasingly competitive off-campus housing market. This move comes as ETSU experiences a surge in student enrollment, with participation in the college transition program, known as Preview, nearly doubling from 800-900 students five years ago to 1,900 this year.

The university is also focusing on improving meal plan engagement, which has seen an increase of over 1,000 meals served daily, and a 25% rise in daily visits to the Campus Recreation Center. These figures reflect a vibrant campus life, bolstered by the largest freshman class in ETSU's history.

In terms of retention and graduation rates, ETSU is making strides, with a current retention rate of 76%, the second highest in a decade. The six-year graduation rate has also improved by 12% over the past seven years, placing ETSU in the top quartile among similar institutions nationwide. However, university leaders acknowledge the need for continued efforts to reach their goals of 85% retention and 60% graduation rates.

To support these objectives, ETSU plans to establish a "one-stop shop" for integrated services related to financial aid, registration, and bursar functions, aiming to streamline processes for students and families. Additionally, a new student success center will be developed, focusing on low-income and first-generation students, ensuring that essential support is embedded in the foundational years of their education.

The meeting also celebrated the dedication of faculty and staff, who played a crucial role in welcoming new students during move-in day. Over 400 volunteers, including staff from various departments, contributed to a smooth transition for more than 3,000 incoming students and their families, showcasing the university's commitment to community and support.

As ETSU continues to grow, the focus remains on fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that prioritizes student success and engagement, setting the stage for a promising academic year ahead.