African American males face major challenges in retention and graduation from institutions of higher education. The 6-year graduation rate for African American males at 4-year public institutions and private nonprofit colleges is less than 40%. This figure suggests that persistence toward degree attainment is a problem. The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether selected precollege-and college-level variables have a relationship to retention and graduation for African American males. Gateway University, a historically black college and university, was the site of the investigation. Three research questions were posed: (a) What precollege variables best predict retention and graduation for African American males? (b) What college-level variables best predict retention and graduation for African American males? and (c) What combination of precollege-and college-level variables best predict retention and graduation for African American males? Five-hundred and sixty-two African American males, entering freshmen for the 2005-2006 academic year, comprised the sample. Inferential analyses, including bivariate relationships, cross-tabulations, chisquare and logistic regression, were performed to determine relationships between

Quite often the question for many college professors is “How do you capture the attention of today's student and keep them engaged?” Traditional teaching methods remain important and should not be abandoned. However, with the ever-expanding use of technology in the classroom, faculty members must consider course redesign to increase students' investment in and connection with course material. This chapter will discuss the role of faculty in developing strategies and techniques used to redesign courses and how the use of digital technologies can positively influence student engagement and success.

For over 150 years, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have played a significant role in providing a quality education to millions of families. The nation's HBCUs add a rich texture to the fabric of higher education in the United States. Their legacy is one of access and opportunity. In order for HBCUs to continue their legacy, they will need to continually examine their retention and engagement strategies, particularly when there are major factors that contribute to an institution's credibility and financial stability at a time when greater emphasis is being placed on these indicators in higher education in the United States. It is critically important HBCUs to address the challenges surrounding student retention and engagement, especially for traditionally underrepresented groups, and start a dialogue to embrace change and improvement in their efforts to increase retention and student engagement.

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