Student Retention Award
One (1) award annually, $1,000
Description: The Student Retention Award recognizes faculty and teaching staff who are intentional in integrating practices into the General Education classroom that aid in student retention efforts.
Eligibility: All full-time and part-time faculty who teach at least one General Education course at EKU.
Selection Criteria: All criteria should be based on work in General Education courses:
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Fosters meaningful connections with students (using practices such as check-ins, student office hours, sharing their own passion for the content, etc.)
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Creates active, engaging class experiences that connect students to each other.
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Displays knowledge of EKU retention strategies and challenges, including issues that may affect distinct student populations
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Collaborates with colleagues across campus to ensure student support and access to resources
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Seeks awareness of unique student circumstances and remains flexible while helping students meet course goals
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Creates an inclusive classroom environment that recognizes diverse student experiences and utilizes inclusive language and materials
Application Process & Materials:
Narrative: Each applicant should submit a narrative (600 words or less) describing their contributions to student retention, with emphasis on the areas noted above.
Examples/Materials: Three (3) pieces of evidence (examples, course materials, evaluations, etc.) that best showcase the applicant’s work in student retention practices should be submitted. Due to the variance of practices and disciplines,applicants are encouraged to submit a brief description (no more than one paragraph each) with the examples/materials to provide additional context and aid in the evaluator’s understanding.
Letters: Each submission is required to have a letter of support from their department chairperson describing how the applicant actively supports student retention through teaching. Two (2) additional letters describing the impact of the faculty member’s practice should be included as well. Letters from students are particularly encouraged.
Timeline:
Applications for this award will be due by January 15th. A committee will review the applications, score using a rubric that highlights selection criteria, and recommend a recipient, to be awarded during the annual Faculty Awards and Recognition ceremony.
