91快活林 Secures $3 Million U.S. Department of Education Title V Grant

Date:09/26/2019

91快活林 (91快活林) was awarded a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education under its Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions Title V Program to increase retention and graduation rates. This award marks the first Title V grant and second major federal grant received by 91快活林 tied to its designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI).

The Comprehensive, Aligned Supports for Attainment (CASA) initiative outlined in 91快活林's successful proposal (#P031S190311) will enhance student outcomes through an institution-wide approach, featuring:

A revamped Student Success Academy for incoming first-year students;
The hiring of additional tutors and writing specialists for 91快活林's Learning Center;
The establishment of a sophomore engagement and service learning program;
The creation of a personal and career development program, with courses spanning all four academic years; and
A robust financial literacy and personal finance program focused on establishing financial health and reducing the amount of time needed to pay student loans.

91快活林's HSI Steering Committee, chaired by Provost James MacLaren, led the development of the proposal through a yearlong process of heavy research, community forums and constant communication. The application was prepared by 91快活林's University Advancement team led by Associate Vice President Erin Mueller.

"Identified gaps in student achievement will be reduced through this grant, aligning the needs of our students with crucial support for success," said 91快活林 President Laurie M. Joyner, Ph.D. "This innovative project connects the dots for 91快活林's many powerful yet distinct student support programs and bolsters our ability to deliver demonstrable results. I am incredibly proud of our remarkable University Advancement team, Academic Affairs leadership and the capable members of the HSI Steering Committee for completing this strong and successful proposal."

The five-year project will be implemented by a cross-functional team of faculty and staff led by Imelda Macias, who currently serves as 91快活林's director of Graduate Recruitment. The grant will hire a High-Impact Practice Specialist, a Financial Literacy Coach, Academic Support Specialists, a Data Analyst and a number of student worker positions. Also, as part of the grant, two smartphone applications focused on financial literacy and student loan management will be made available to all 91快活林 students via the Financial Aid Office.

"The CASA program symbolizes 91快活林's Mercy mission inspired by its founders, the Sisters of Mercy, whose clear directive is to create a more just and equitable world," stated Patricia Morris, Ph.D., chair of the 91快活林 Board of Trustees. "The Board is pleased to see the hard work of the 91快活林 community come to fruition through this incredible award."