Baylor’s Community of Care Leads to Student Success
The thousands of students who call Baylor University home each have access to a multitude of services and opportunities to enhance their academic experience and root them in success and connection throughout their Baylor journey. Leadership development programs, peer-to-peer introductions to more than 400 student organizations, initiatives designed for first-generation college students and veterans and a Care Team that stands at the ready to offer holistic, relational care are just a few ways Baylor students build a community of support.
“We realize that life outside the classroom greatly impacts life inside the classroom.” Director of Student Care and Wellbeing Meghan Becker shared. “While the Care Team is often called upon during times of intervention or crisis, we also are available as a resource to students who don’t know where to start for the wellbeing support they need. A holistic approach means we are mindful of spiritual, emotional, physical and academic wellbeing and offer guidance and connection for whatever a student’s need might be.”
Many areas of support also can be found in the Paul L. Foster Success Center. From personalized academic assistance through academic coaching and mentoring and major exploration that helps students map out their journey, to specialized programs for transfers, pre-law students, first-generation students and more, the Success Center is a hub of valuable resources. Steven Fernandez serves as one of three directors for student success and engagement in the Success Center. In his role, Fernandez implements nationally recognized programs aimed at retention and post-graduation success, such as the McNair Scholars Program and Avanzando through College. At Baylor, the first-year adaptation of the Avanzando program is known as Adelante, and it has been particularly successful with a 100% retention rate among students in the program. The Adelante Beyond program for rising juniors and seniors helps prepare students for career or post-graduate placements.
“These initiatives not only create spaces where students feel seen, valued and connected, but also ensure they have access to the resources, mentorship and guidance needed to thrive. By investing in programs like Adelante and Adelante Beyond that guide students through their college journey and into careers that follow, Baylor demonstrates its dedication to helping all students reach their full potential,” Fernandez said.
“Being part of the Adelante program at Baylor has truly transformed my first-year experience,” Yanira Leva, a rising sophomore biology major from Humble, Texas, said. “I never imagined how impactful having a faculty mentor would be, but my mentor has guided me with such genuine care, whether offering thoughtful advice or even packing us lunches for the road.”
Baylor also is achieving success in creating programs for veterans and military-affiliated students and first-generation college students. Baylor’s Veterans of Baylor student group, advised by Veteran Educational and Transitional Service (VETS) Program Manager Kevin Davis, was named the 2024 SVA Chapter of the Year. The First in Line program was selected as the 2024 NASPA Excellence Award Bronze Honoree for First-generation Student Success, and the program’s Success Academy Scholars continue to exceed their peers in academic performance and retention.
“The focus of our team is a collaborative approach to provide programs and initiatives with a dedicated staff member for all students to receive personalized support, resource connection and a welcoming environment that fosters connection and smooth transitions to campus life,” Davis said.