Exploring Student Success at Fresno State – What Is Working? What Did Not Work? and What Is a Work in Progress?
Bernadette T. Muscat (California State University, Fresno)
Student success is a key priority at Fresno State, with ongoing efforts to boost academic achievement, increase retention, and support the overall student experience. This presentation, led by Dr. Bernadette T. Muscat, Dean of Undergraduate Studies, examines
key initiatives such as Graduation Initiative 2025, efforts to re-engage and re-enroll underserved students, and the expansion of credit opportunities through summer and intersession programs. Equity priorities remain central, focusing on alleviating administrative barriers, promoting equitable learning, and reducing DFW (Drop, Fail, Withdraw) rates. By assessing the successes and challenges of existing strategies, the presentation outlines ongoing efforts aimed at continuous improvement, ensuring that Fresno State remains committed to providing students with the resources and support necessary for their academic and personal growth.
View the presentation material below:
Note from the author
Over the past decade, Fresno State has engaged in numerous efforts in support of Student Success. Some of these efforts are a result of systemwide initiatives (e.g., Graduation Initiative 2025 and Equity Priorities) while others are developed in response to grants received (e.g., SSEI, PALS, and APLES). We closely examine our extensive data on areas of concern to develop campus pilots with the hope of closing equity gaps and improving student outcomes. This presentation will explore these various efforts and provide an overview of what is working, what did not work, and what remains a work in progress.
