Columbus State University is investing over $4 million to hire more than 40 academic and career coaches, part of a major initiative to improve student outcomes and graduation rates. The university’s new coaching-based advising model is among only a few in the U.S. that offer students individualized academic and career support throughout their entire college journey.
Unlike traditional advising roles, which often face high turnover and inconsistent training, Columbus State’s coaches will be competitively compensated, receive International Coaching Federation certification, and serve as long-term partners for students. The move follows a collaboration with the National Institute for Student Success, which helped identify strategies to raise the university’s retention and graduation rates.
Columbus State President Stuart Rayfield emphasized the institution’s commitment to this transformation. “We meant it when we said we were going to upgrade our ability to guide our students toward success,” she said. “By upgrading these roles with additional training and certifications, we can better help students in their academic journey—and in their personal and professional dreams.”
The coaches will replace the current advising model, which typically involves staff advisors in the early years and faculty mentors later. Under the new system, faculty can focus more on teaching and research, while coaches provide holistic, consistent support, helping students select courses, access academic resources, and stay on track to graduate on time.
“We’re thrilled about the difference our new coaches will make in students’ lives—helping them stay on track, reach their academic goals and earn their degrees,” said Dr. Melissa Young, assistant vice president for student success. “This coaching-based advising model is a key piece of our larger vision to enhance student success at Columbus State.”
In addition to academic guidance, career success coaches will help students map out career paths, explore internships, and engage with industry professionals. Seven career coaches and 20 academic coaches will be hired this spring, with another 20 academic coaches expected to join in the following academic year. Each coach will specialize in a specific academic area—ranging from arts and business to health and STEM—and collaborate closely with faculty and local employers.
Shana Young, associate vice president for community engagement, said the career-focused aspect of the coaching model will ensure students are workforce-ready by the time they graduate. “Each coach will work collaboratively with our faculty, staff and industry professionals to connect students with career opportunities, internships, experiential learning, and career events,” she said.
Columbus State’s model draws inspiration from institutions like the University of Kentucky, which saw a 92% retention rate among students who engaged with coaches during their first semester in 2021.
With student success as a core pillar of its new strategic plan, Columbus State’s investment aims to create a more supportive academic environment, boost retention and graduation rates, and better prepare graduates for career success in Georgia and beyond.
