Cultivating success: The student affairs leadership as a catalyst for student achievement and well-being
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56294/saludcyt20252656Keywords:
Student Success, Retention, Student Affairs Office, Student Well-Being, Inclusion, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3 and SDG 4), Higher Education LeadershipAbstract
Introduction: The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3: Improved Health and Well-being and SDG 4: Quality Education) say that student achievement and retention are very important in higher education. Despite growing attention to student outcomes, limited research explores the influence of the Student Affairs leadership on academic persistence and holistic student success. This study addresses this gap by examining how office leadership, collaboration, and innovation contribute to institutional effectiveness and equitable student outcomes.
Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted. A total of 72 studies were initially screened, and 25 peer-reviewed articles published between 2016 and 2024 met the inclusion criteria. The selected literature focused on four interrelated themes—leadership, retention, well-being, and collaboration—which collectively informed the development of the study’s conceptual model.
Results:The results show that student success goes beyond just getting good grades; it also includes emotional, social, and psychological well-being, all of which are affected by the leadership of the institution and the climate on campus. The student affairs office leadership plays a pivotal role in fostering inclusive environments that support underrepresented groups, integrating wellness and mental health initiatives, and establishing collaborative partnerships that strengthen institutional capacity.
Conclusion: Persistent challenges such as funding constraints, student stress, and mental health concerns demonstrate the importance of data-informed and technology-driven interventions. Overall, student affairs leadership functions as a linchpin for achieving institutional goals, advancing equitable education, and promoting lifelong success for diverse student populations.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Arlene R. Alcopra, Stephen A. Fadare, Sittie Aina T. Pandapatan, Kristal Ann Villan, Radzwhiel I. Tawasil, Hanima O. Cosain, Asliha R. Said (Author)
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