By Sunni Moore

Trae Sprague was appointed Dean of Student Success and Retention at Glenville State University in November of 2021. In this position, he is responsible for collecting data for the institution, reviewing policies and procedures, and interacting with students on all fronts to to improve retention or student success.

Sprague also oversees Student Support Services (SSS) and the Academic Success Center (ASC) on campus. Although these programs are similar, there are a few key differences designed to meet the needs of students.

SSS is a federally funded program that encourages student success through activities and other services, such as tutoring, study-sessions, and supportive and academic counseling. The SSS program can only accept 160 students, and has specific guidelines on who may participate. To be a part of SSS, students must have two of three of the following: must be a first-generation student, be income eligible, be in a four-year degree program. Students with a documented learning or physical disability are also eligible.

The ASC, however, is an institutionally funded program that is designed to enhance the development of all students by focusing on student success, retention, and graduation rates. At the ASC, students are encouraged to participate in their many services that include tutoring, accommodation and accessibility services, and Veteran support services.

Overall, Sprague’s focus remains on the students. Having worked as an Admissions counselor from 2012 to 2016, and as Director of Residence Life from 2019 to 2022, he is exceptionally knowledgeable on the wants and needs of students on a personal and academic level. With this understanding, he believes that building a relationship and gaining the trust of students is one of the more important factors in making students feel comfortable while at GSU.