We have noticed a worrying trend of students receiving failing grades because they disappear. They stop showing up to class and stop submitting work; these students fail but have not taken the class. We examine add/drop policies at our home institution, San José State University, and argue that these policies constitute an instance of structural injustice that becomes systemic when combined with other sources of injustice in our students’ lives.

Noah Friedman-Biglin, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, San José State University
Riana Betzler, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, San José State University

Historically, SJSU's strict withdrawal and reinstatement policies created significant barriers for academically disqualified students, delaying their progress. By re-evaluating our procedures and simultaneously updating academic standing upon retroactive withdrawal approval, SJSU has streamlined the recovery process. These changes have increased retention and graduation rates, and reduced time to degree. This presentation will share the successes and challenges associated with this shift, fostering discussion of student-centered approaches and the CSU’s commitment to access for all.

Melinda Jackson, Dean of Undergraduate Education, San Jose State University
Julie Chisholm, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education, San Jose State University

This session explores how Fresno State’s Learning Center has become a transformative, cross-divisional hub advancing institutional mission and student success. Grounded in compelling student outcome data, the presentation highlights how Supplemental Instruction, Tutoring, and Academic Success Coaching redefine what effective learning spaces can be. Attendees will learn actionable strategies to reduce learning gaps, normalize help-seeking behavior, and build campus-wide collaboration—creating more flexible, accessible, and impactful learning experiences for today’s students.

Ruby Sangha-Rico, Interim Associate Vice President, Student Success Services, Fresno State