New students at Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) will get an early start on completing their degree this summer. The Summer of Success Academy (formerly known as the Summer Bridge Program) is a six-week intensive academic and residential program designed to help incoming first-year students enhance their academic skills and set a strong foundation for their college careers. The program will provide students with effective study skills, tutorial assistance, academic enhancement, and centralized support services to promote academic excellence.

“We are thrilled to launch the Summer of Success Academy. This program is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that our students have every opportunity to succeed academically, personally, and professionally,” said SAU President Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail. “Through the program, we aim to provide students with a supportive community where they can thrive and grow and develop the skills necessary to achieve their goals.”

According to a U.S. Department of Education study, Summer Bridge participants are ten percent more likely to graduate within six years, with increased retention rates and grade point averages of ten percent and fifteen percent.

“The Summer of Success Academy is an excellent opportunity for students to start their college journey during the summer months,” said Mr. Jorge Sousa, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management. “In this program, students receive guidance and support from faculty and staff dedicated to helping them reinvent themselves in a supportive, nurturing environment that fosters excellence.”

SAU Summer of Success Academy participants will receive extensive tutoring and full academic support, including one-on-one and small-group tutoring, supplemental instruction, and structured study groups. They will also attend Student Success Seminars, covering various topics such as academic advising, learning styles, money management, career planning, and personal safety.

“SAU has two guiding principles, Student Success and Sustainability. The SAU Summer Success Academy is the beginning of a student’s experience to success at the university,” said Dr. Leslie Rodriguez-McClellon, Senior Vice President, Student Experience. “We are excited to offer participants various activities and points of exposure for Success Academy participants to begin their journey at SAU.”

In addition to academic support, the program will expose participants to the full range of resources and facilities available on campus. Students will experience various social, service, and leadership opportunities available on campus and in the local community. Participants will develop self-confidence, responsibility, friendships, and a sense of community through these activities.

The Summer of Success Academy will offer students seven academic credits through 3 classes. The program is open to all incoming first-year students and will begin on June 26th.

Click here for more information about the Summer of Success Academy.