In 2012, the National Dropout Prevention Center announced the creation of the NDPC Research Fellows Program to contribute to the National Dropout Prevention Center at Clemson University and the National Dropout Prevention Network in achieving their mission to reduce the incidence of dropout and increase high school graduation rates nationwide through research and evidence-based solutions.
“These Fellows will broaden the impact of the Center and Network through efforts such as collaborative research projects, public speaking including keynotes and serving on panels, and the development of practical resources for the field,” stated then Interim NDPC/N Director, Dr. Sam Drew. “Indeed, their initial plans include providing a regular meta-analysis of the latest research on dropout risk factors and effective programs, building on the NDPC’s 2007 report, Dropout Risk Factors and Exemplary Programs, and an Annual Report that will highlight the latest in effective strategies.”
The Fellows program will expand to include a NDPN Practitioner Fellows program. Those individuals selected for NDPN Practitioner Fellows will provide the practical outreach through the Network, based on the NDPC Fellow’s research findings and their own work in dropout prevention efforts at the local level. The two groups will work together and be known as the NDPC/N Fellows.
Stuart Udell, CEO of Catapult Learning, Inc., and then Chairman of the NDPN Board, added this endorsement. “Speaking for the Network Board, we are enthusiastic about this new direction for both the Center and the Network. We believe that the strength of these concerted efforts in dropout prevention will provide greater use of the Center’s outstanding resources and a more widespread dissemination through this growing Network.”