Colleges and universities positively impact individuals, communities, and society—and through Discover the Next, higher education institutions have united with a common voice to tell that story of the value. A joint program of CASE, the American Council on Education, and the Association of Governing Boards, the campaign is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
To date, more than 100 educational institutions have signed on as participants, making a direct effort to share stories about the ways in which their institutions have a positive impact in the areas of personal achievement, economic advancement, scientific innovation, and community connection.
Here, meet five Discover the Next participating institutions and, through their impact stories, see how they’re tackling issues of access and affordability. All have found that a holistic approach to providing student support services results in higher rates of retention, graduation, and student success.
Coppin State University
Wraparound services lead to success
Nekia Randall graduated from high school in May 1998, and 25 years later in May 2023, she earned her bachelor’s degree in behavioral science from Coppin State University, a historically Black university in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
Her cheering section at the graduation ceremony included friends and family, and most importantly, her 14-year-old son. She says they were all part of the village supporting her throughout her quest for a college degree.
That village also included her academic advisor and a host of other Coppin staff who surrounded her with support through a model of “wrap-around” student services. The goal of bringing student services together in a holistic manner is “100% retention and graduation,” says James Stewart, Associate Vice President for Student Development and Achievement.
At Coppin, student services teams from areas such as academic advising, tutoring, and career services work together to see and address the needs of the “whole” student.
