By Brent Lyday
Commerce – Texas A&M University-Commerce continues to ease the transition for incoming students after being selected as one of eight colleges and universities to participate in the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Postsecondary System beginning next fall.
"AVID is a nationally recognized program that promotes student achievement and strengthens relationships among participating schools and universities," said Dr. Dan Jones, A&M-Commerce president. "The fact that we have been chosen speaks volumes about the quality of our efforts. Being an AVID university will enhance the excellence of our students, faculty and programs."
The AVID Postsecondary System is designed to increase student academic success, persistence and completion rates among postsecondary institutions. The four-year project will provide academic support services using AVID strategies for first-time students who are unprepared for college-level coursework.
"The fact that A&M-Commerce is the only university in the DFW Metroplex to be selected for this project validates what we have been accomplishing with our public school partners and other organizations to improve college readiness for our region," said Dr. Mary Hendrix, A&M-Commerce vice president for student access and success.
A variety of services will be available through AVID, including tutorials, faculty development and student supports systems that will continue through graduation. A&M-Commerce will provide AVID courses for freshmen that strengthen academic achievement, provide academic and advising support and help students develop critical inquiry skills.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for our university," said Stephanie Holley, A&M-Commerce dean of enrollment and retention. "A&M-Commerce's involvement with AVID will provide a natural and easy transition for students as they enter our university."
A&M-Commerce was selected for the program along with Central Texas College, Southwest Texas Junior College, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Texas State Technical College-Harlingen, the University of Houston-Downtown, the University of Texas-Pan American, and the University of Texas Permian Basin.
"Being selected as an AVID partner offers A&M-Commerce the opportunity to continue AVID's mission to support underachieving middle and high school students and helping them succeed in higher education," said Dr. Sharon Johnson, A&M-Commerce associate vice president for student access and success. "Students will continue to receive instruction in academic survival skills, intellectual and critical thinking skills, and social engagements to help ensure a successful university experience."