SIUE Summer Success Program Celebrates Student Achievement SSP Welcomes Its Largest Incoming SIUE First-Year Students
The largest student cohort to date of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Summer Success Program (SSP) took one more step toward degree completion when they celebrated the ending of their summertime academics.“You have so much to be proud of and to be in anticipation of, because you all did so well in the program,” said SSP Director Kelly Atkins, EdD.
Atkins encouraged the 84 students who completed the five-week program. The 2025 Summer Success Closing Ceremony was held Friday, August 8 in the Legacy Room of SIUE’s Morris University Center. SIUE Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD, was among the SSP faculty, staff and supporters who came out to wish the students well.
“We were excited to praise our incoming college first-year students who elected to pursue an early start to their college careers,” said Letrice “Lee” Young, EdD, SSP coordinator.
Throughout the program, participants lived in University housing, enrolled in three academic courses, and took part in developmental workshops aimed at easing their transition to college life. SIUE faculty led courses in subjects such as math and biology, while tutors and learning support staff assisted with course content, according to Atkins.
Additionally, success coaches provided guidance on study strategies, time management and overcoming procrastination.
“The ceremony served as a salute to the students’ accomplishments and a confident send-off as they begin their academic journey at SIUE,” said Atkins.
SSP faculty and graduate assistants were also recognized for their dedication and hard work.
The SIUE Summer Success Program provides assistance to incoming first-year undergraduate students. It works collaboratively with students during an ongoing transitional process from high school to college and creates a foundation for persistence towards a timely graduation.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville provides students with a high-quality education that powerfully transforms the lives of all individuals who seek something greater. A premier metropolitan university, SIUE is creating social and economic mobility for individuals while also powering the workforce of the future. Built on the foundation of a broad-based liberal education, and enhanced by hands-on research and real-world experiences, the academic preparation SIUE students receive equips them to thrive in the global marketplace and make our communities better places to live. Home to a diverse student body, SIUE is situated on 2,660 acres of beautiful woodland atop the bluffs overlooking the natural beauty of the Mississippi River’s rich bottomland and only a short drive from downtown St. Louis.