Congratulations Bearkats, Sam Houston State University has recently been selected as by the Southern Education Board as one of 15 public universities nationwide that has been “outperforming most similar institutions in helping students stay on track and graduate.” From 2004 to 2006, SHSU six year graduation rates dramatically increased from 34 to 46 percent and one year retention rates increased to 75 percent.

Much of this success can be attributed to the Student Advising and Mentoring Center (SAM), a one stop shop for advising, mentoring, and support services geared to assist students in creating goals, achieving those goals, and staying on track to graduate. The SAM center undoubtedly assists in SHSU’s success in a time where college enrollments in the US are increasing, but timely completion of bachelor’s degrees has stalled.

Fewer than 33% of degree-seeking, full-time freshmen in public four year universities graduate in four years. Most of those students take at least six years to earn their bachelor’s degree and only 55% of students graduate in that time span. These figures are shocking, to say the least. However, SHSU is on the right track.

This recognition is definitely the perfect way to kick off the summer because now students will have more pride in their amazing institution. Good luck with finals and Go Bearkats!