SWOT Analysis

A comprehensive system of programs in place to assist students has allowed Michigan Tech to achieve a good retention rate. However, improvement is necessary to meet our goals, particularly for underrepresented students. A significant concern is the continued availability of external funding to support retention efforts.

In summary, the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats with regard to retention are as follows:

Internal Assessment of the Organization

Strengths

Retention rate
Academic preparation of students
Learning Centers
Academic support programs for students and faculty
Role models for women and students from underrepresented groups
First-Year Orientation Coordinator (new position)
Outreach and Multiethnic Division
Diversity programming for faculty and students
Student peer leadership programs

Weaknesses

Academic calendar
Advising
Course avalibility
Few permanent role models for underrepresented students

SWOT ANALYSIS

Opportunities

Renewed national attention on education
Increased Federal financial aid

Threats

Diminished external financial support programs
Remote physical location for underrepresented students

External Assessment of the Environment

Action Plan

To take advantage of opportunities and remedy concerns with regard to retention, the following action plan is recommended. Responsible parties for implementing the recommendations are identified.

	What	Who

1	Implement the Retention Task Force recommendations with adequate funding.	Executive Vice President and Provost All Departments
2	Regularly assess progress toward retention goals.	Standing Committee on Retention
3	Develop meaningful and visible rewards for faculty and units that significantly contribute to retention.	Vice Provost for Instruction
4	Actively and purposefully encourage students and faculty to participate in diversity-related activities.	University Administration
5	Continue to administer the Student Satisfaction Survey regularly, and disseminate results.	Student Affairs
6	Increase the number of women and underrepresented faculty and staff.	University Administration All Departments

This action plan will be integrated into the strategic planning process for 1998/99.

ENDNOTES

U.S. News & World Report, Sept. 8, 1997, p. 97. BACK

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Last Revised: 12 DECEMBER 1997
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