EFSC Accomplishments 2018 | Page 7

April 2018 College Accomplishments • Women were awarded 60 percent of all AA and AS degrees; 59.5 percent of College Certificates; and 57.6 percent of Bachelor Degrees. • The college’s minority assistance efforts are layered in programs at all levels, with one example the Minority Male Initiative designed to help men of color stay enrolled and graduate. • Input from minority students was gained through campus town hall discussions and from groups such as the African-American Student Union and Hispanic Club. • Teams of faculty and staff mentors are working with groups of minority males comprised of 15-25 individuals on each campus. • The teams are providing academic and professional support, leadership, guidance, and peer-to-peer support. Striving for Excellence The Center for Teaching Excellence moved forward on an ambitious plan that further enhanced the professional development of the college’s full-time faculty and adjuncts. (Student Enrollment, Diversity Initiatives, Employee Relations) Highlights: •  Held 83 workshops and webinars for faculty development, more than doubling the number from 2017. • One training example was “The Poverty Simulation” that provided insight into the challenges facing low-income students. • Another training example was a monthly Diversity Workshop to improve student mentoring and create paths for their success. •  Began work to strengthen the Study Abroad Program to include both long-term and short-term trips, and start a student exchange program. • Created a quarterly newsletter to provide faculty with college-wide updates, and highlight key faculty issues and achievements. • Continued strong outreach to adjuncts who comprise a vital part of the college’s teaching staff to make sure their efforts are recognized and included in EFSC life. • Continued to support the college’s Green Dot initiative that is part of a national campaign to prevent violence on campus. Exemplary Practice Award An EFSC pilot program designed to help at-risk students graduating from high school succeed in college earned a top honor from the Association of Florida Colleges. (Student Enrollment, Diversity Initiatives, Employee Relations) Highlights: • The association’s Student Development Commission named EFSC’s “Step-Up” program winner of the 2018 Exemplary Practice Award, given annually for innovation and providing exceptional student services. • The initiative, led by the EFSC Student Recruitment Office, offered a structured pathway for at-risk students in Brevard County graduating from high school in May 2016. • Some 12 students participated in the pilot program, undergoing a rigorous schedule that included full- time enrollment, tutoring sessions, advising meetings, mentorships and other support services. • The students successfully completed their first semester in Fall 2016 with nearly 22 credits each and an average group GPA of 3.09, giving many a jump start to successful college careers. • Many of the students have graduated and gained acceptance to Nursing and other EFSC programs. • More than 25 faculty, staff and community members played a role in the program’s success. 7