Overall Rating Silver - expired
Overall Score 52.43
Liaison Wesley Enterline
Submission Date Nov. 13, 2018
Executive Letter Download

STARS v2.1

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
PA-7: Affordability and Access

Status Score Responsible Party
Complete 2.87 / 4.00 Wesley Enterline
Sustainability Coordinator
Facilities Planning and Management
"---" indicates that no data was submitted for this field

Does the institution have policies and programs to make it accessible and affordable to low-income students?:
Yes

A brief description of any policies and programs to minimize the cost of attendance for low-income students:

GRANT PROGRAM
https://www.uww.edu/financialaid/types-of-aid/grants
There are various grants available to UW-Whitewater students that target students below a certain threshold of EFC (expected family contribution). Examples include:

Advanced Opportunity Grant (AOP)
Federal Indian Grant
Federal Pell Grant
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
Lawton Undergraduate Minority Retention Grant
Non-Resident Grant
Tuition Assistance Grant (TAG)
Talent Incentive Program Grant (TIP)
Wisconsin Covenant Foundation Grant (WCFG)
Wisconsin Covenant Scholars Grant (WCSG)
Wisconsin Grant for Study Abroad
Wisconsin Hearing/Visually Handicapped Grant
Wisconsin Grant
Wisconsin Indian Student Assistance Grant

FEDERAL WORK STUDY
https://www.uww.edu/financialaid/employment#FWS
Federal Work-Study is a need-based aid program that is awarded to students who have submitted their FAFSA by the priority date and have demonstrated financial need. This program is available to citizens or permanent residents of the United States. Work-study earnings are considered taxable income and treated just like any other employment when completing tax returns. Work-study earnings are not considered as income when you re-apply for financial aid the next year and are not subject to FICA withholdings.

RETURN TO WISCONSIN TUITION DISCOUNT
http://www.uww.edu/alumni/benefits/lifelong-learning/family-discount
The Return to Wisconsin program was designed to encourage alumni to help keep UW-Whitewater in the family. Available at only a handful of UW campuses, Return to Wisconsin offers non-residents a 25% discount on out-of-state tuition, provided a parent, guardian, or grandparent had previously graduated from UW-Whitewater.


A brief description of any programs to equip the institution’s faculty and staff to better serve students from low-income backgrounds:

INCLUSIVE EXCELLENCE FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
https://www.uww.edu/diversity/inclusive-excellence-fellowship-program
The UW-Whitewater Inclusive Excellence (IE) Fellowship Program seeks applications from scholars, artists and educators who can contribute significantly to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s Inclusive Excellence initiatives. The IE Fellowship Program supports the university’s commitment to fostering greater understanding of individual, societal and group differences at every level of university life. Fellows play a critical role in intentionally integrating those differences into the core aspects of the institution. The IE Fellowship Program offers a unique opportunity to work in a university environment that is committed to creating learning environments in which students of all backgrounds can thrive, and that demands that the ideals of inclusion, equity, diversity and excellence be pursued as interconnected and interdependent goals.


A brief description of the institution’s programs to guide and prepare students and families from low-income backgrounds for higher education:

TRiO PROGRAMS
The Upward Bound Program is funded by a grant through the US Department of Education. This grant follows the legislation provided by the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (Title IV). Its success helped support the creation of Educational Opportunity Centers, Veterans Upward Bound, and Upward Bound Math/Science in 1972; the Training Program in 1976; the Ronald E. McNair Post Baccalaureate Achievement Program in 1986, and the TRIO Dissemination Project in 1998. All of these programs make up what we call "TRiO" programs. This legislation defines participant eligibility, funding levels, documentation rules, and uses for the monies provided. The Higher Education Act is renewed every six years; therefore, funding levels and other issues can be reflected by the current administration.programs are federally funded by Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. These programs are designed to prepare low income, first generation or disabled Americans to begin and complete college.

PRECOLLEGE PROGRAMS
http://www.uww.edu/precollege
The Office of PreCollege Programs seeks to provide information and support related to postsecondary education access for students that may experience barriers by creating a culture supportive of academic success. The Office of Pre-College Programs administers the Upward Bound Program and Pre-College Academic Camps.

The Upward Bound Program serves college-bound students in grades 9-12 at targeted schools in Milwaukee and Racine. Support is provided through academic advising, tutoring, mentoring, and a six week summer academic enrichment experience. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education.

The Pre-College Summer Camps include five weeks of academic, career, cultural and recreational activities. The camps are: Reading for Success in Math & Science; College Acceleration Program (CAP) I; College Acceleration Program (CAP) II - STEM; College Access Program (CAP) III Capstone; ACT Preparation Camp;. The camps are funded by Department of Public Instruction, State of Wisconsin.


A brief description of the institution's scholarships for low-income students:

UW-WHITEWATER SCHOLARSHIP SEARCH
http://www.uww.edu/scholarships
There are several hundred scholarships and grant programs offered to UW-Whitewater students and many of them have requirements for demonstrated financial need.

FUND FOR WISCONSIN SCHOLARS
http://www.uww.edu/sdes/diversity-programs/fund-for-wisconsin-scholars
Fund for Wisconsin Scholars was founded by John and Tashia Morgridge. John and Tashia wanted to help students who could not afford college to have the opportunity to attend and be successful in their college careers and decided to create this grant. The grant is here to help reduce the financial barriers to college and to lighten the debt that most Wisconsin students incur during their college years. Lastly, Fund for Wisconsin Scholars provides grants that open the door to a better world, helping ensure that higher education is accessible and affordable, and that degree completion is achieved. More information on the grant can be found at www.ffws.org.

SDES SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS
http://www.uww.edu/sdes/scholarships-grants
As a result of socioeconomic status and other structural barriers, many students struggle to finance their education. Most research shows that there is a definitive connection to retention, graduation and financial support. SDES attempts to provide incentives such as grants, fellowships and scholarships to help facilitate improved retention and graduation rates for students.


A brief description of the institution’s targeted outreach to recruit students from low-income backgrounds:

WHEELS TO WHITEWATER
The Wheels to Whitewater program focuses on recruitment of students from the Milwaukee Public Schools district. Wheels to Whitewater is designed to give multicultural students the opportunity to visit the UW-Whitewater campus, while also exposing them to specific areas such as Admissions, Academic Advising, Athletics, Financial Aid, and Multicultural Affairs and Student Success. This comes at no cost to the high schools; UW-Whitewater funds transportation and meals. Historically, the program serves 325-400 students each year.


A brief description of the institution’s other policies or programs to make the institution accessible and affordable to low-income students:

No other policies or programs not already noted above.


Does the institution have policies and programs to support non-traditional students?:
Yes

A brief description of the institution’s scholarships provided specifically for part-time students:

No federal and state financial aid can be disbursed to students enrolled at least half time and there are no ‘targeted’ dollars for part time students. However, there are several scholarships that target non-traditional students: https://www.uww.edu/aso/scholarships


A brief description of the institution’s on-site child care facility, partnership with a local facility, and/or subsidies or financial support to help meet the child care needs of students:

CHILDREN'S CENTER
https://www.uww.edu/childrenscenter
The Children's Center offers year round, full day year round child care for children from ages 3 months up to 6 years old. Our program's philosophy is that children learn through hands on inquiry based open ended activities. We defend our children's right to play and believe that play is their work. We follow a Reggio Inspired Approach to teaching by viewing every child as capable and competent and our children's families as their first teachers and partners in the learning process. Our program's curriculum is child centered and initiated. We utilize the Project Approach to implement our curriculum.

UW-Whitewater Children's Center has been accredited by the National Association of Young Children since 1991. We are also licensed by the Department of Children and Families Division of Early Care and Education Bureau of Early Care and Regulation. Our program qualifies as a Five out of Five Star program under the Wisconsin Quality Rating Indicator System called Young Star.

The Children's Center offers reduced rates for Student Families.

Andersen Library features a newly remodeled Children's Area on the library's second floor. The Children's Area contains children's books, music, videos, cd's, interactive learning games, a television and even k-12 textbooks. * Children must be supervised.

YOUNG COLLEGE PARENTS PROGRAM
http://www.uww.edu/diversity/the-young-college-parents-program
YCPP provides advocacy and support to its participants by offering workshops, access to resources and many services designed to help students reach their educational and professional intentions.


A brief description of the institution’s other policies and programs to support non-traditional students:

ADULT STUDENT OUTREACH
https://www.uww.edu/aso
It's never too late to follow a dream. We know that beginning college for the first time or finishing the degree you've already started is a big decision. This site is dedicated to helping each adult student find information, connections, and motivation to achieve his or her educational goals. We recognize that your needs differ from those of traditional age students and we will make every effort to meet those needs.

STAFF
The Adult Student Services Coordinator key responsibility is to provide one-on-one attention to encourage and coordinate support for you as an adult learner. Some of the valuable services provided include support services to meet your unique needs as an adult student and help to enhance your experience at UW-W, programs and services that help you connect to the campus community such as Plan-It-Purple orientation/registration and advising program, and guidance and support to assist you with the transition while understanding you have other responsibilities such as employment and family obligations.

https://www.uww.edu/registrar/veterans-services
The Coordinator of Student Veterans and Military Services supports veterans on campus by helping them create strong campus connections and by being a safe and reliable confidant. He helps veterans successfully transition from service to college, oversees the veteran’s lounge, and develops resources and policies to enhance the experience of veteran students. He is an advocate for student veterans and military personnel across campus, and he creates the support systems veterans need to stay in college and graduate.

AWARDS
https://www.uww.edu/aso/scholarships/awards
The Nontraditional Student Recognition Award was established to recognize a nontraditional student on our campus. It recognizes the nontraditional student’s academic commitment, leadership, and significant contributions to the university community while managing the multiple life roles of a nontraditional student.

Concern for Adults Returning to Education (CARE) Recognition is for UW-Whitewater faculty or staff members who show sensitivity to the diverse learning styles, experiences, and multifaceted lives of nontraditional undergraduate students. Faculty or staff members nominated for this support and enrich the student experience by accepting the unique qualities and challenges that adult students bring to campus.

INVOLVEMENT
https://www.uww.edu/aso/support/#studentin
Adult Students Connections is a great opportunity for anyone interested in connecting with other adult/non-traditional students on campus. We are dedicated to supporting each other on our educational journeys. We communicate by email and Facebook, and would love to have you join us.

The Non Trad Pad is located near the Career and Leadership Offices, past the bay of computers and Bailey Interview Center. It is tucked in the corner near the fireplace. Stop in for as little or as long as your busy schedule allows. It is casual and a fun way to meet other nontraditional students on campus.

Veterans Students' Lounge - Andersen Library: The main floor of Andersen Library is home to a lounge for our student armed services veterans. The lounge is equipped with reading materials, comfortable furniture, and Skype stations for keeping in touch with family and friends overseas.

The Lactation Room is located in Hyland Hall - Room 1006 provides private space where lactating mothers are welcome to pump or nurse. Lactation Room access requests should be made in the Online Education and Technology Support Center located in Hyland Hall - Room 3001.


Does the institution wish to pursue Part 2 of this credit (tracking accessibility and affordability)? (If data is not available, select 'No'):
Yes

The percentage of entering students that are low-income (0-100):
25

The graduation/success rate for low-income students (0-100):
54

On average, the percentage of need that was met for students who were awarded any need-based aid (e.g. as reported to the U.S. Common Data Set initiative, item H2) (0-100):
62

The percentage of students graduating with no interest-bearing student loan debt or for whom no out-of-pocket tuition is required (i.e. the percentage of graduates who have not taken out interest-bearing loans) (0-100):
45.90

Estimated percentage of students that participate in or directly benefit from the institution’s policies and programs to support low-income and non-traditional students (0-100):
40.50

The website URL where information about the programs or initiatives is available:
---

Additional documentation to support the submission:
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Data source(s) and notes about the submission:

Percent receiving Pell Grant found here: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=whitewater&s=all&id=240189#finaid

Graduation rate for students that "Received Pell Grant in 1st Year" used 6 Yr Graduation Rate from the 2011-12 Cohort: http://www.uww.edu/irp/dashboards/retention-graduation

Common Data Set responses found here: https://www.uww.edu/irp/compliance-and-reporting

The percentage of graduates who have not taken out interest-bearing loans used the "Did not receive loan" adjuster for the 2011-12 Cohort. Of the 1993 students in this graduating Cohort, 914 did not take out a loan (45.9%): http://www.uww.edu/irp/dashboards/retention-graduation

A reliable source for the percentage of students that participate in or directly benefit from the institution’s policies and programs to support low-income and non-traditional students was not available, so the following assumptions were made: 25% of students enter as low-income, according to reported statistics. According to enrollment stats, 2008 of the 12,430 students in 2017-18 academic year were 25 or older, but 81 also received Pell Grants. Therefore, it is estimated that 15.5% of students are non-Pell, non-traditional, plus the 25% low-income, for 40.5% of students receiving benefit from these programs.


Percent receiving Pell Grant found here: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=whitewater&s=all&id=240189#finaid

Graduation rate for students that "Received Pell Grant in 1st Year" used 6 Yr Graduation Rate from the 2011-12 Cohort: http://www.uww.edu/irp/dashboards/retention-graduation

Common Data Set responses found here: https://www.uww.edu/irp/compliance-and-reporting

The percentage of graduates who have not taken out interest-bearing loans used the "Did not receive loan" adjuster for the 2011-12 Cohort. Of the 1993 students in this graduating Cohort, 914 did not take out a loan (45.9%): http://www.uww.edu/irp/dashboards/retention-graduation

A reliable source for the percentage of students that participate in or directly benefit from the institution’s policies and programs to support low-income and non-traditional students was not available, so the following assumptions were made: 25% of students enter as low-income, according to reported statistics. According to enrollment stats, 2008 of the 12,430 students in 2017-18 academic year were 25 or older, but 81 also received Pell Grants. Therefore, it is estimated that 15.5% of students are non-Pell, non-traditional, plus the 25% low-income, for 40.5% of students receiving benefit from these programs.

The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.