Simpson College reported an 89% retention rate for full-time students for the 2025 spring semester. Only 73 of the 1,183 full-time traditional students from fall 2024 are not returning this spring.
This is an expected trend. A majority of the 73 non-returning students are part of 3+1 programs or implied they will return to Simpson after a semester away. The 89% retention rate showcases Simpson’s commitment to fostering student commitment and success.
“Simpson continues to explore these rates overall and for each individual student to identify gaps and trends. We measure by various aspects of the class to learn how and when our interventions have been successful,” Matt Hansen, vice president for student development, said. “In the end, these are all individual students. While their aggregate data informs us and our practices going forward, their individual data informs us of their story and their journey. We continue to work to meet each student ‘where they are at’ to help them find/create success at Simpson.”
Several resources and support systems designed for student success contributed to the impressive retention rate. Simpson has faculty that welcome student interaction by offering flexibility and holding office hours at different times throughout the week. Additional resources include peer academic coaches, peer academic leaders, services at the writing center and supplemental instruction (SI), all of which are arranged through the Center for Academic Resources (CARS).
Simpson College requires students on academic probation to take a one-credit course called Seminar for Student Success. Students meet weekly to learn how to succeed educationally and personally. The students also receive one-on-one professional coaching along with regular peer-based academic coaching.
While Simpson’s 89% retention rate highlights the success of numerous students, it also sheds light on the experiences of those who chose a different path. For some students, challenges made continuing their education at Simpson difficult, leading them to explore other opportunities.
“I was initially motivated to enroll at Simpson because I wanted to continue my athletics after high school,” an anonymous Simpson student said. “I decided to leave Simpson because I felt like my voice and my teammates’ voices weren’t being heard in the athletic department. The challenges I faced were only due to what I felt, as my athletic team was being mistreated and ignored when problems would come up.”
Simpson’s retention rate goal is 80%, and a rate of 70% for four-year graduation. The college has maintained this rate over time and continues to work towards these goals. Simpson expressed that every student matters and the institution works to retain one student at a time.
“SC’s goals again return us to the student as an individual,” Teresa Swan-Tuite, associate dean for student success, said. “While we look at retention, graduation and first-destination data, we also have the goal of empowering students to define and live into their own success.”
College can be an exciting time for students, but struggle is a normal part of the experience for many. Today, many students face challenges in different areas, including financial challenges, time commitments, a sense of belonging, social pressure and more.
“We have incredible professional and peer academic coaching at Simpson. Yet, some students feel uncomfortable asking for ‘help’ and accepting it. Some students see help-seeking as a weakness or a failure. The opposite is true,”Amy Jeffrey-Kennel, CARs director of academic coaching, said. “Learning with and from other students and scholars is an integral part of the college experience. If students are struggling in a specific course or feeling unmotivated, I encourage them to connect with CARS. We provide a safe space to share academic and personal experiences and concerns, and we provide personalized support. Afraid? We get it. You’re not alone. You’re welcome here.”