Bridging Equity Gaps: Data-Informed Strategies for Student Success

Session Abstract: Harper College has made significant strides in closing equity gaps between white students and students of color through equity-focused initiatives. This session provides a review of our institution's DEI strategic goals aimed at addressing persistent equity gaps in student success metrics. Our presentation will highlight (1) strategies that improved Black student outcomes in developmental math and writing; (2) discussion of universal increases in gateway course success and shifting equity gaps; (3) initiatives that boosted Black students' persistence by 12%; and (4) improvements in graduation rates for Black and Latinx students. Attendees will gain critical insights into effective strategies for identifying and narrowing equity gaps in community college settings, including challenges faced and lessons learned in pursuit of equitable student outcomes. By sharing our findings, we aim to equip institutional researchers with actionable insights to foster more equitable learning environments in higher education.

Keywords: equity gaps, data-informed strategies, community college, student success metrics, DEI goals