Saint Leo is ranked 117th for social mobility among national universities, of which more than 400 were considered for the U.S. News honors. To be considered a national university, the institution must offer a full “range of undergraduate majors as well as master's and doctoral degrees.”

The rankings for social mobility look at a university's ability to enroll, retain, and graduate students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and help them get high-paying jobs and career success. This is often measured by the graduation rates for students who receive Pell Grants, with those who do not.

“Saint Leo has a long history of innovating to make higher education accessible,” said Dr. Jim Burkee, university president. “We offer unique programs and assistance to so many — students who may not have the economic means, who are the first in their families to attend college, and who are adult learners, pursuing a degree while working a job and raising a family. We are pleased to receive this recognition for the work we do to prepare all students with opportunities for a brighter future.”

The university developed a Retention Task Force which is focusing on supporting students in multiple ways including assisting first-generation students, those who might be academically unprepared, and others who might face challenges.

For example, Saint Leo is expanding its Lions Empowerment and Achievement Program (LEAP), which is designed to help incoming University Campus students get a head start on their first semester in college. Previously, the program took place for a few days prior to the start of fall classes, and now it will be a no-cost, eight-week program for up to 50 students, starting in Summer 2 Term in 2026 (early fall), said Dr. Anthony DeSantis, associate vice president of Student Affairs. “We’re going to set them up and ensure their success throughout their academic career and offer resources and support.

Saint Leo also is conducting personalized outreach to at-risk students, including regular check-ins, academic coaching, and tailored support plans. “We just completed a call campaign [earlier in September] and every FTIC [first-time-in-college student] was called,” DeSantis said. “We’re doing outreach to make sure they’re connected and doing well in school.”

The university utilizes a holistic approach to student success, making sure the student is doing well not only academically, but physically and mentally, too, and multiple departments are involved, offering students support.

Before classes begin, faculty members are prepped and given instruction on how to report students who may be having academic challenges such as missing assignments or classes. In addition, the university uses Leona, a chatbot feature, to touch base with students. For example, using the Leona chatbot, Student Success recently surveyed first-generation students on their top concerns.

“It’s common to have anxiety, imposter syndrome, academic anxiety, concern about finances,” said Dr. Ben Forche, director of Student Success and Academic Engagement. “They’re also trying to connect the dots between what they’re studying and their chosen career. We help them see that and help them start preparing.”

Check-ins are made every seven to 10 days to ensure students are engaged, attending classes, feel welcome, and more.

Last year, Saint Leo developed and implemented a Career and Life Plan program for students which equips them to:

• Craft a personalized roadmap to achieve academic and career aspirations.
• Develop strong academic foundations through strategic course planning.
• Explore career paths aligned with interests and skills.
• Graduate on time with the "Finish in 4" initiative.
• Access essential resources to overcome challenges and thrive at Saint Leo.

This year, Student Success coaches will meet with every first-year campus student, Forche noted. And the program will be expanded to include online students.

Being engaged, involved, and going beyond the classroom are key to a successful college career, he said. Employers are looking for more than just a diploma.

“My biggest advice is: Do not ‘autopilot’ your college degree,” Forche said. “You will be one of those students who graduates but cannot find a job. College degree is a minimum requirement. Employers are asking ‘What experiences did you engage in during your undergraduate career?’”

Saint Leo will continue to ensure that all students will have the resources and tools to help them achieve their goals, DeSantis added.