Student Government President Ryan Smith announced the kickoff of a group of programs that will partner with the Provost's "War on Attrition" in an effort to use campus involvement to bolster student retention.

The TallyCats program is one of SG's efforts, which awards points to students for attending campus events. SG also launched the Ipod Incentive program, which awards Ipods to student groups that attend their events.

“We’re leading the country in this kind of program,” said Ann Haney, chairwoman of the Student Affairs Committee.

SG also organized a program for incoming freshman called the Common Reading Experience, led by faculty and student facilitators to help integrate new students into the academic community.

“It provides a shared experience for incoming students,” said Associate Dean of Students Rebecca Jordan. “It sets the expectation for students to get involved.”

The Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Victor Hazard was impressed with the quality of student participation. “The dynamic of students working along with us was amazing," said Hazard.

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