Wayne State University has been named to Phi Theta Kappa’s 2017 Transfer Honor Roll, which recognizes excellence in community college transfer pathways.
Wayne State is one of only 65 institutions selected. Winners were chosen based on engagement, collaboration, impact and achievements related to the transfer of community college students as well as partnerships, support, admissions outreach, scholarships and financial aid, student engagement opportunities, and institutional priorities.
“We are pleased and honored that Wayne State University was recognized by Phi Theta Kappa for our endeavors in supporting transfer students and their success,” said Ahmad Ezzeddine, associate vice president for educational outreach and international programs. “We are committed to building on these efforts and our partnerships with community colleges to ensure transfer students continue to have smooth and streamlined pathways to a timely and successful attainment of their college degrees.”
One of the most visible efforts made in serving transfer students was the creation of the Transfer Student Success Center. Whether transferring to WSU from a community college or transitioning from another four-year institution, starting at a new university creates unique challenges. The TSSC provides direct service to help students transition, including unofficial transfer credit evaluations, Transfer Open House, a Transfer Student Learning Community and the Transfer Welcome event.
Ezzeddine credits the university’s investments in deepening the relationship with WSU’s community college partners through articulation agreements, along with innovative programs such as the Wayne Advantage program with Macomb Community College. In addition, the expanded programming at Schoolcraft College makes a positive and welcome difference for transfer students, who represent nearly half of Wayne State’s new incoming undergraduate students year after year.
“This award is a reflection of the outstanding work by many Wayne State offices and departments with transfer students, and the executive leadership that supports this work,” said Doug Freed, director of the Transfer Student Success Center. “It takes a team effort to ensure the success of our transfer students. The TSSC is proud to lead and be involved with many of these efforts. We want everyone at Wayne State to feel they are part of us being awarded the PTK Honor Roll designation.”
WSU will be recognized April 6-8 at Phi Theta Kappa’s convention, PTK Catalyst 2017, in Nashville. In addition, WSU, along with the other winners, will be featured in Phi Theta Kappa’s Partners in Excellence publication, which is distributed nationally to higher education leaders.