Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP)

The QEP is the foundational document submitted to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) in 2005 that focuses on the improvement of the rate of academic progress among first-time, first-year students by means of various learning engagement strategies. As the Chief Academic Officer, the Provost is ultimately responsible for the creation, implementation, and assessment of the QEP. Progress is measured through the traditional indicators of grade-point average, scholastic probation, enforced withdrawal, and retention. Baselines and expected outcomes over the five years of the QEP have been defined, and yearly reports to SACS show our progress towards achieving QEP goals. One key aspect of the QEP is faculty development.

• FIRST Faculty Initiative. Students’ first-year experience is of critical importance to the university. Faculty who work with first and second-year students must have an effective repertoire of skills to promote student academic success and, ultimately, student progress and retention. Through the FIRST Faculty Initiative, funds are made available to promote dialogue and development of faculty members who serve this critical population.