MALTA – Kishwaukee College has seen a significant increase in graduation rates over the past five years. Between 2013 and 2018, the program completion rate jumped from 19 percent to 33 percent. This rate is determined by the number of full-time students, enrolled in college for the first time, who complete a program within three years. Nationally, the median completion rate is 23 percent. Kish’s rate of 33 percent puts them ahead of approximately 80 percent of community colleges nationally according to the National Community College Benchmark Project. 

The College attributes the increase in student success to the elimination of barriers to completion, such as the graduation portfolio, and reducing the number of remedial classes needed by looking at alternatives to testing for course placement. Local high schools offering college prep classes in partnership with Kish also helps students be ready for college. “We are focused on making decisions in the best interest of our students, ensuring we are providing the programs and support our students need to be successful,” said Dr. Laurie Borowicz, President.

The College also attributes the increased program completion to new strategies to retain students. A key strategy is a new academic advising model focused on how advisors and counselors communicate and reach students.

Sean Kesselring, Lead Academic Advisor, explained the consistent and regular connection the advising and counseling team makes with Kish students, from the moment students apply. Kesselring said, “The advising team sends regular emails throughout the semester to share tips for success and important information like scholarship deadlines or registration dates.” Kesselring even travels across campus with a mobile advising station during registration to sign students up for classes on the spot.

“It’s all about building relationships,” said Michelle Rothmeyer, Vice President of Student Services. “We want to make a comfortable, welcoming environment for the students.”

There has also been a significant effort to develop program pathways, which identify a clear academic path from high school to degree completion, including transferring to a four-year institution. Transfer guides have been developed for nine different Illinois colleges and universities and in almost 30 different career fields. “These guides allow students to see how their Kish degree will transfer to various 4-year colleges and universities, help them prepare for advising meetings, and understand their transfer degree path,” said Kesselring.

For more information about transfer pathways, visit kish.edu/transfer.