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Radical Reimagining for Student Success in Higher Education

By Denise Drane, Senior Associate Director of Research and Evaluation

In Radical Reimagining for Student Success in Higher Education, a collection of essays and case studies, the contributing authors explore how institutions can transform their practices to prioritize student success. Grounded in the findings of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities’ (AASCU’s) Re-imagining the First Year (RFY) initiative, the book offers valuable insights and strategies relevant to anyone committed to fostering student success, including those of us at Northwestern.

At the core of the book is a call for a radical reimagining of higher education, emphasizing the need for an integrated, holistic approach to student success. The authors argue that piecemeal efforts are no longer sufficient in today’s complex higher education landscape, shaped by shifting student demographics and diminishing resources. Instead, they propose centering student success in every aspect of the university, from institutional structures to pedagogical practices.

Key Themes and Takeaways

The book is divided into sections that address institutional and pedagogical transformation, presenting a compelling vision for reimagining higher education in the U.S. By bringing together diverse voices from faculty, administrators, and staff, the editors highlight the collective effort required to create meaningful change.

Evidence-Based Strategies
One of the book’s strengths is its wealth of evidence-based, practical guidance relevant to a wide audience: academic administrators, department chairs, faculty, and staff in centers dedicated to student learning and success. These strategies are not only aspirational but actionable, grounded in real-world examples and case studies from universities across the country.

Addressing Root Causes
The contributors emphasize the importance of identifying and addressing the systemic barriers that hinder student success. This focus on root causes encourages readers to think beyond surface-level interventions, aiming instead for deep, sustainable change. They suggest data guided approaches as being central to revealing and addressing root causes.

The Challenge of Cultural Change
The book concludes by tackling the grand challenge of shifting institutional culture. The authors acknowledge the difficulties of fostering such change but stress its necessity for creating inclusive environments that foster talent in all students. Based on the evidence and case studies presented in the book, Jillian Kinzie shares a 9-step formula for institutional change to support student success.

A Focus on Pedagogical Transformation and Support for Instructors

A particularly compelling chapter, authored by Mark Canada and Jeffrey Gayton, examines the central role of learning in student success. Canada and Gayton argue that learning—purpose-driven, active, experiential, authentic, and collaborative—should be the heart of the university.

This chapter offers an excellent discussion of pedagogical strategies, including active and authentic learning approaches that inspire and engage students. It also provides concrete examples, and an evidence base that faculty can apply directly to their own teaching practices.

Timothy Dale and Joseph Foy follow with a chapter on how institutions can support faculty who are committed to student success. Strategies include creating mentoring networks for instructors, providing them with  professional development around student success and incorporating student success frameworks in faculty/instructor review criteria.

Why This Book Matters

While Radical Reimagining for Student Success in Higher Education does not prescribe a single definition of student success, it provides a rich tapestry of ideas and practices that invite readers to reflect on their roles in fostering student achievement. For those of us at Northwestern, the book serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration across departments, centers roles, and disciplines to meet the evolving needs of our students.