The Albany State University transition team announced the launch of a task force that will focus on improving and enhancing the student experience. The ASU Student Engagement Experience task force will lead an in-depth examination of the student experience, from when a student enrolls to when a student graduates. This is the first major initiative the transition team is announcing to create the new Albany State, and students will be at the core of serving on the task force.

The task force’s recommendations will guide the institution’s focus on improving student retention and championing student success and will have three focus areas:
 
First-Year Experience – enhance campus life and improve service to students

Student Engagement for Success – improve student retention and increase graduation rates

Student Support Services – streamline and improve orientation, advising, and registration process
 
“I want to personally recognize and thank our student leadership for stepping forward to help advance our effort,” said Marion Fedrick, ASU executive vice president. “We look forward to working closely with our student leaders to improve the student experience at ASU as we continue to position the new Albany State University for long-term success.”

Members of the task force include:
 
Task Force Co-Chair Joyce Jones, Ph.D., vice chancellor for student affairs, University System of Georgia

Task Force Co-Chair Scott Lingrell, Ph.D. vice president for student affairs and enrollment management, University of West Georgia

Andre Armour, president, ASU Student Government Association

DeAndre R. Cochrane, senior vice president, ASU Student Government Association  

Charles L. Durrah, vice president, ASU Student Government Association - East Campus

Cameron R. Southerland, vice president ASU Student Government Association - West Campus

Wanesia P. Francis, Miss ASU

Santo E. Nina, Mr. ASU
 
Fedrick added, “I also want to thank the local business community who have expressed tremendous support of ASU’s long history of producing community leaders, involved citizens and productive members of the local and regional workforce.”

The Student Engagement Experience Task Force will hold its first meeting next week and will have a report with recommendations by mid-December.