[Gerald Williams]

GOALS
The primary purpose of this proposal is to increase academic dedication, graduation rates, and work ready preparedness for a cohort group of sophomore African American Males at Valdosta State University students. This program proposes to serve 25-50 students who have been identified as being financially-at-risk, yet exhibit academic excellence. The program will function to provide peer mentoring, career and character guidance to strive this unique group of students’ towards tangible academic achievements and graduation. The proposed plan is comprehensive, inclusive of both the academic and social development of the students served.

TARGET COHORT
The identification/recruitment process will begin during the academic summer semester examining fall pre-registered students and will continue until a pool of eligible students is identified using the data warehouses unmet need indicator. Once identified, an applicant letter and admittance application for the program will be sent to the students inviting them to participate in the program. Interested applicants will be asked to complete the application and return it to the Office of Career Opportunities. The recruitment process will continue until 25-50 participants have been identified and have committed to the program. Once a student commits to the program they will be invited to attend a unique orientation that will be conducted during the first week of the fall semester. Potential participants that choose to participate in the program will agree to a Social Contract. Terms of that contract will include approximately 100 hours towards the following activities: Service Learning/Community-Based Learning Activities, Tutoring Sessions, Financial Literacy Workshops, Career Guidance, Cultural /Academic Enrichment Activities, Bi-weekly meetings with Peer Mentor, and Shadowing.
 
ACTIVITIES THAT ADDRESS THE GOALS OF PROGRAM
The following narrative outlines the activities and methods to be utilized in the program. All activities are designed so that the program will achieve the objectives of academic dedication and graduation. It is important to note that the Career Opportunities staff will not be solely responsible for the success of the program. Career Opportunities will work as a cross-functional team with all academic divisions, student services, other campus-based programs, and off-campus partners to ensure the goals of the program are met. All activities performed by the participants will help to promote a positive outlook for academic success, character discipline and an enriching connection to the Valdosta State University campus cultural. Some of the activities listed below are listed as High Impact Practices through the Liberal Education and America’s Promise initiative (LEAP).

Fall
Service Learning/Community-Based Learning Activities
Financial Literacy Workshops
Career Guidance (one-on-one and group counseling)
Cultural/Academic Enrichment Activities
Bi-weekly Meetings with Peer Mentor

Spring
Shadowing
Collaborative Assignments and Projects
Service Learning/Community-Based Learning Activities
Financial Literacy Workshops
Career Guidance (one-on-one and group counseling)
Cultural/Academic Enrichment Activities
Bi-weekly Meetings with Peer Mentor