Institution Washington State University State Washington Academic Level Baccalaureate Issue Area Support Services Website https://camp.wsu.edu/ Key Personnel Michael Heim Program Focus First Year Support, Learning Community Overview The College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) at Washington State University supports the academic success of migrant and seasonal farmworker students, enhancing their first-year college experience. CAMP aims for first-year completion, second-year retention, and successful graduation. Services in Spanish and English foster a deep connection to CAMP's mission. Exceeding federal key performance indicators, CAMP ensures 86% of students complete 24 credits in their first year (Key Performance Indicator 1) and achieves 92% retention for these students, measured by fall-to-fall retention (Key Performance Indicator 2). Additionally, although not required, CAMP tracks participants' progress through graduate school to further support and report on their academic achievements and success. Program Description Washington State University (WSU) serves over 4,100 Latino undergraduates, about 16% of the student body. Despite its appeal to Latino students, WSU remains a predominantly white institution (PWI), presenting barriers for Latino students regarding affordable access to quality education. Founded in 2006, WSU CAMP offers a range of support services, including individualized academic advising, recruitment, tutoring, and community-building events. The program provides a $1,000 financial stipend, priority registration, personalized academic and life coaching, and a Spanish-language orientation for parents. CAMP collaborates on a regional leadership conference, hosts a career development course, and fosters a learning community with social and cultural events to affirm Latino identity. Participants receive course materials, backpacks, and access to extracurricular events. CAMP also organizes National Farmworkers Awareness Week and supports Latinx Heritage Month activities, bridging service gaps and promoting Latino student success. Outcome Washington State University found that CAMP participants, 100% of which are Latinx, achieve higher retention and graduation rates compared to their non-participating, but CAMP eligible, students (control group). The program's focus on first-year support and culturally responsive services significantly improves academic outcomes for the program participants. Retention Rates: Over the past three years, CAMP maintained an average retention rate of 85.90% compared to 68.21% for the control group. Graduation Rates: The 4, 5, and 6-year combined graduation rates for CAMP participants averaged 68.78%, compared to 50.85% for the control group. Completion Rates: Since the program's inception in 2006, CAMP has maintained an average KPI 1 rate of 89.42% and a KPI 2 rate of 97.88%. The 2020-2023 data reflect the success of Latinx program participants through the COVID-19 pandemic and the recovery years immediately following. The KPI 1 rate is completing 24 credits within the first year and the KPI 2 rate is a Fall-to-Fall retention rate of 92% or higher for those completing the 24 credits. Graduate School Completion: CAMP participants have a 16.03% graduate school completion rate compared to 6.92% for the control group. Learn more about Latino College Completion in Washington Return to Growing What Works Database
