This session reflects on the 5-year evolution of a graduation celebration, intended for all students, but particularly those students and their support system who may not be able to participate in the traditional 2-hour ceremonies due to family, physical accommodations, work, or travel. This session will help you understand how to design a custom celebration that can be adapted for various budgets, audience sizes, and in-person or virtual formats.

How do you measure student belonging? How do you measure student engagement? How do you measure self-confidence? Can understanding those concepts help with retention? San Francisco State University (SFSU) wanted to find out so that they could know how they were serving its Latinx students. In partnership with KNow Research they conducted a bespoke research project where they explored student belonging, engagement, and self-confidence, examining aspects of campus life that either enhanced or challenged Latinx students' sense of belonging. It’s groundbreaking research of which the insights provided a clearer understanding on the Latinx students’ sense of belonging and its impact on retention efforts.

As the higher education landscape continues to change, institutions must plan and work today to meet the needs of tomorrow. Nevada State University President DeRionne Pollard, Ph.D. provides insight into how her institution is preparing to be the next great state university.