Student Success and Retention Conference 2025

In this high-level and fast-paced session, Dr. Brent A. Gage, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management and Strategy at the University of Iowa and Senior Consultant with AACRAO Consulting, will provide an in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities higher education professionals will face in 2025 and beyond. This keynote will explore critical areas of focus for daily work and long-term planning, addressing pressing emerging trends that demand attention. Covering 10 essential insights, including the looming enrollment cliff, growing mistrust in financial aid, and the evolving tension between campus priorities and national politics, Dr. Gage will dive into the key reflections to help higher education professionals navigate the changing landscape with confidence. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable perspectives and strategies for the future!

Centering student voices is critical in colleges’ student success efforts, particularly elevating the voices of new majority learners - working, parenting, immigrant, adult education, career pathways and Black, Indigenous and other students of color - students whose voices have not historically been front and center. To culminate this year’s Student Success and Retention Conference, attendees will hear from four current Oregon community college students. Through this powerful panel discussion, we’ll learn about their unique journeys to and through college. The students will share the college supports that have been most helpful to them and offer invaluable insights and recommendations on what more colleges can do to be student ready. Attendees should feel even more inspired and motivated to implement innovative student success ideas and best practices back on their campuses.