Wallace State Community College is deepening its commitment to student success by sending 10 employees to the Caring Campus Academy (CCA) in February. The CCA bolsters Caring Campus through a series of sessions that guide faculty and staff in developing and institutionalizing behaviors that foster student connectedness and success.
“We wanted to send a significant number of employees to the Academy to further our commitment to creating a supportive and caring environment for all students,” said Kristen Holmes, Wallace State Vice President for Students and Chief Marketing Officer. “The Academy helps institutionalize Caring Campus principles, making it easier to sustain these efforts even as new employees join the college.”
Wallace State has already embraced Caring Campus through initiatives like free mental health counseling, a food pantry, tutoring, personalized interactions with students, and dedicated spaces like Veterans’ Corner and the Mother’s Lounge for tailored support. These efforts have contributed to record-breaking enrollment of 6,400 students in fall 2024 and an 84% retention rate from fall 2022 to spring 2023.
“Students at Wallace State have expressed positive feedback about Caring Campus and the welcoming atmosphere and personalized support they receive from faculty and staff,” Holmes said. “Caring Campus has helped make students feel valued and cared for, enhancing their college experience and encouraging them to persist in their studies.”
Looking ahead, Wallace State plans to deepen community engagement, expand personalized services, and integrate innovative teaching methods to further enhance student success.
Colleges and universities can sign up for the upcoming CCA cohort, running from the end of February into March through the CCA website.
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