Southwestern University Wins 2025 Retention & Persistence Laurels Award for Student Success

Southwestern University’s recent recognition by the Associated Colleges of the South (ACS) underscores the institution’s commitment to fostering student retention and persistence. The 2025 Retention & Persistence Laurels Award, presented at the ACS Chief Student Affairs Officers gathering in Winter Park, Florida, honors programs that demonstrably improve student outcomes. Southwestern’s award‑winning initiative—subsidizing fraternity and sorority new‑member fees for students with financial need—highlights a collaborative effort across Student Life, Financial Aid, and Greek Life to make campus involvement more inclusive.

Why the Award Matters for Prospective Students

For students evaluating colleges, a strong retention record is a key indicator of institutional support. The ACS award signals that Southwestern actively removes financial barriers that can impede a student’s ability to engage in campus life, a factor closely linked to academic success and graduation rates. When students can participate in Greek life without the burden of high initiation costs, they gain access to mentorship, leadership training, and a supportive community—all of which contribute to higher persistence.

Retention and Persistence: The Numbers Behind the Award

• Students who join Greek organizations at Southwestern are statistically more likely to remain enrolled and graduate on time.
• Financial aid teams report a 15% increase in retention among students who receive fee subsidies.
• Student Life’s engagement metrics show a 20% rise in campus activity participation following the subsidy program’s launch.

How the Subsidy Program Works

The initiative is a partnership that pools resources from Student Life, Financial Aid, and the Greek Life office. When a student applies for financial aid, the aid office identifies those with documented financial need. Those students are then offered a partial or full waiver of their fraternity or sorority initiation fees, subject to a modest application process. The program is designed to be transparent and easy to navigate:

1. Identify Need: Students submit a financial need statement during the aid application.
2. Apply for Waiver: Eligible students complete a short waiver form available through the Student Life portal.
3. Approval and Payment: The combined offices review the request and, if approved, the fee is covered by the university’s budget.
4. Enjoy Membership: Students can then join their chosen organization without financial hesitation.

Impact on Student Success

Beyond the immediate financial relief, the program cultivates a culture of inclusivity. Students who might otherwise forego Greek life due to cost now experience:

• Enhanced leadership opportunities through chapter governance roles.
• Access to alumni networks that can aid in internships and job placements.
• Improved mental health outcomes, as social support is a proven buffer against academic stress.

These benefits align with Southwestern’s broader mission to provide a well-rounded liberal arts education that prepares graduates for both professional and civic life.

What Prospective Students Can Do Now

If you’re considering Southwestern University, the award demonstrates the university’s proactive stance on student welfare. Here’s how you can take advantage of the resources highlighted by the award:

• Explore Greek Life: Visit the Student Life page to learn about the fraternities and sororities on campus and the support available for new members.
• Check Financial Aid Options: Review the Financial Aid portal to understand how the university assists students with tuition and fees.
• Schedule a Campus Visit: Use the Campus Visit page to book a tour and meet with admissions counselors.
• Apply for Admission: Begin your application through the Online Application portal and note the scholarship and fee waiver opportunities.

Call to Action

Ready to experience a university that prioritizes student success? Submit your application today and discover how Southwestern’s award‑winning programs can support your academic journey.

Have questions about the subsidy program or other student services? Contact the admissions office for personalized guidance.

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Share your own experiences or ask for advice in the comments below—our community is eager to help you make an informed decision.

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