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The Retention Disconnect: What Adult Learners Need — and What Institutions Miss

Published on 01/09/2026 | Written by Collegis Education | 3 Minutes Read Time

New research from UPCEA and Collegis Education reveals a growing misalignment between how institutions approach retention and what adult learners actually need to succeed. While many institutions are investing in retention, strategies still over-rely on structured oversight and under-deliver on the flexibility, visibility, and autonomy adult online learners say they need most.

The Retention Disconnect: What Adult Learners Need and What Institutions Miss
Wednesday, February 11
1:00 pm ET / 12:00 pm CT 

Join Dr. Tracy Chapman, Chief Academic Officer at Collegis Education, and Emily West, Senior Market Research Analyst at UPCEA, as they break down key findings from the national survey and explore how institutions can realign support strategies to improve outcomes, protect revenue, and meet adult learners where they are.

Expert Speakers

Professional headshot of Tracy Chapman, Chief Academic Officer.

Dr. Tracy Chapman

Chief Academic Officer

Collegis Education

Emily West Headshot

Emily West

Senior Market Research Analyst

UPCEA

What you’ll learn: 

  • Why nearly half of institutional leaders can’t report their online retention rate — and why that matters
  • The disconnect between staff-led interventions and student-preferred tools like dashboards and self-service
  • How to shift from compliance-based models to empowerment-driven support
  • The importance of segmentation based on life stage, not just demographics
  • Three strategic shifts institutions can act on now

Who should attend:

This session is ideal for higher ed leaders focused on student success, enrollment, and retention strategy, including:

  • Academic leadership (CAOs, provosts)
  • Enrollment and student affairs leaders
  • Online and adult learner program managers
  • Institutional researchers and data strategists
  • IT decision-makers
  • Presidents, CFOs, and strategic planning teams

If you’re working to improve outcomes for adult online learners or reduce attrition, this webinar is for you.

Complete the form on the top right to reserve your spot. We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday, February 11. 

About the author

Collegis Education

Our mission is to enable impact in higher education. We help our partners achieve more, deliver superior experiences, and drive impact across the entire student lifecycle by leveraging and aligning data, technology, and talent.
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