The Role of Parent and Guardian Engagement in Boosting Student Retention

In the quest to keep students on track and thriving, universities have pulled out all the stops—offering everything from academic tutoring to cutting-edge engagement tools. But amid all these efforts, many overlook one of the most influential allies in a student’s success: their parents and guardians. When families are thoughtfully involved in the educational journey, their encouragement and support can make a measurable difference in helping students stay motivated, feel supported, and ultimately, stay enrolled.

By strategically involving families in a student’s academic journey, institutions can foster a stronger support network that enhances student well-being, boosts academic performance, and ultimately improves retention rates.

University students with parents during campus orientation, discussing academic support services.


Why Parent Engagement Matters in Higher Education

Family involvement is traditionally emphasized in K-12 education, but research shows that it remains just as impactful in the college years. When parents and guardians stay informed and involved—within appropriate boundaries—students are more likely to stay motivated, feel supported, and persist through challenges.

A report from the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) found that students who reported higher levels of parental involvement had higher engagement levels and were more likely to persist to graduation. This highlights a valuable opportunity for institutions to leverage family engagement as part of their student retention strategies.

The Benefits of Parent and Guardian Involvement

1. Emotional and Academic Support

College students often face a range of academic, social, and emotional challenges. Parents and guardians who remain engaged can offer timely encouragement, guidance, and motivation, reducing the risk of students feeling isolated or overwhelmed.

2. Improved Communication Channels

By maintaining open lines of communication with families, institutions can ensure that parents are aware of resources, deadlines, and support services, allowing them to nudge their students toward taking action when necessary.

3. Increased Accountability

Students who know their families are informed and engaged tend to take their academic responsibilities more seriously. This added layer of accountability can lead to better time management, improved performance, and higher retention.

Strategies for Effective Family Engagement

1. Establish Clear Communication Policies

It's essential to respect student independence and privacy laws like FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). Institutions can encourage students to opt-in to share certain information with their families while setting clear boundaries.

2. Provide Regular Updates and Resources

Offer newsletters, parent portals, or mobile apps that provide updates on campus events, academic calendars, financial aid deadlines, and student support services. This helps families stay informed and engaged without overwhelming them or violating student privacy.

3. Host Virtual and In-Person Events

Orientation programs, webinars, Q&A sessions, and parent-specific workshops help families feel connected to the institution and better equipped to support their students.

4. Leverage Technology for Seamless Engagement

Platforms like Engage2Serve’s Student Support Software allow universities to manage communication with parents and guardians effectively. Features like segmented messaging, alerts, and event invitations ensure that families receive timely, relevant updates—all while maintaining student privacy controls.

Case Study: Enhancing Retention Through Family Engagement

Davenport University, located in Michigan, has implemented a comprehensive First-Generation Initiative aimed at supporting first-generation college students. Since its launch in 2020, the program has introduced several key components:

  • Development of a dedicated first-gen and parent/family website: This platform provides resources and information tailored to the needs of first-generation students and their families.

  • Celebration of National First-Generation College Student Day: By participating in this annual event, the university raises awareness and fosters a sense of community among first-gen students.

  • Inclusion in the "I'm First! Guide to College": Davenport's feature in this publication highlights its commitment to first-generation student success.

In the fall of 2023, the university embedded academic mentors in seven math classes to provide additional support. This initiative resulted in a 93% persistence rate among students in these classes, compared to 85% in other sections. Furthermore, since the inception of the peer mentoring program, retention rates have shown a positive trend. From Fall 2023 to Fall 2024, mentees in the program had a retention rate of 79%, whereas those who did not participate had a retention rate of 50%. These outcomes underscore the significant impact that structured support and mentorship can have on student retention and success.

Emerging Trends: Digital Tools for Family Engagement

As technology reshapes the higher education experience, institutions are exploring digital engagement tools to reach families more effectively. These include:

  • Parent-specific mobile apps with push notifications

  • AI-powered chatbots for common questions

  • Online parent communities and support forums

  • Virtual campus tours tailored for families of prospective and current students

These tools help extend the campus experience beyond the student, creating a community where families feel valued and informed.

Final Thoughts

Engaging parents and guardians in higher education is not about diminishing student independence—it’s about building a support ecosystem that empowers students to succeed. Institutions that proactively involve families in the academic journey are more likely to see higher retention, better student outcomes, and stronger alumni networks.

As part of your student retention strategies, consider how family engagement can be woven into your communication plans and student support initiatives.

To explore more ways to improve student success, check out our related post: Top 5 Student Retention Strategies

External Resources:
Location: United States

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