The Hidden Costs of College Dropout Rates and How to Combat Them

Carey can address the significant financial and emotional costs associated with high college dropout rates, both for families and institutions. He can explain his research findings on the six variable components that most affect student retention and offer practical strategies that institutions can implement to reduce dropout rates, thereby preserving their financial investments and supporting students' long-term success. This talking point is especially relevant for institutions seeking effective methods to improve student retention and for parents who want to understand the stakes of their child’s college journey.

About Carey Dukes

Carey Dukes, podcast guest

Pioneering New Approaches to Student Success and Retention

35+ years Studying change4 transitions Readiness model applicationsD.B.A. Change ReadinessAssistant professor North Greenville University

Carey Dukes brings a unique blend of expertise in business management and academic leadership, honed over three decades in both the corporate and educational sectors. Currently an Assistant Professor of Management at North Greenville University, Carey has a distinguished career that spans from managing large-scale transportation operations to pioneering new approaches in student retention and academic success.

With a Doctorate in Business Administration and extensive experience as a CEO in multiple companies, Carey has a deep understanding of business process improvement, change management, and organizational development. His work in the trucking and logistics industry, where he specialized in fixing broken processes and leading innovation, has equipped him with practical insights into managing complex systems and driving efficiency.

In academia, Carey’s focus has shifted towards addressing one of higher education's most pressing challenges: student retention. Drawing from his own experiences as a first-generation college student, Carey authored a book and developed a model aimed at improving student readiness and retention, particularly in the critical first year of college. His research identifies key variable components that predict student success, offering actionable strategies for institutions to retain more students and reduce the high dropout rates that plague universities.

As a podcast guest, Carey Dukes offers a compelling narrative of transformation, combined with practical expertise in improving student outcomes and driving organizational change.

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2+ podcast & stage appearances. Remote or in studio, broadcast-grade audio.

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