Reaching Individual Success and Empowerment (RISE): A First-generation, Co-curricular, Academic, and Social Engagement Model

Abstract

The performance funding model in Florida challenges institutions in the state university system to
develop effective teaching strategies for all students. Florida Atlantic University (FAU) recognized that one metric could result in increasing the number of students who exhibit risk factors that negatively affect graduation rates. Using Schlossberg’s Transition Theory, FAU developed Reaching Individual Success and Empowerment (RISE); a research informed program that engages students in co-curricular, high impact educational practices. Preliminary findings suggests that the RISE Program may be instrumental in curtailing drop-out rates of first-generation, low socio-economic students in spite of their risk factors.