EPISODE · Jul 31, 2025 · 32 MIN
Guiding the New Majority: How Rio’s Avanzar Program Supports Today’s Students
from Wave Makers · host Rio Salado College
In this empowering episode of Wave Makers, host Michelle Reese sits down with Henry Smith, Title V Program Manager, and Clarice Wziatek, Academic Life Coach, to dive into Rio Salado College’s transformative Avanzar Program. Funded by a $3M Title V grant, the Avanzar Program is on a mission to support the new majority learner — students who are first-generation, working parents, caregivers, or navigating financial and personal challenges. Clarice shares how academic life coaching is redefining student support through tools like Gallup Strengths, the Stanford-designed “Design Your Life” method, and deep, individualized guidance that helps students align their education with real-life goals. Henry reflects on how mentorship changed his own life — and why building relationships rooted in trust, accountability, and empowerment is key to retention and student success. 🎓 This episode is a must-listen for educators, advisors, and anyone who believes in the power of higher education to change lives.
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What this episode covers
Today’s students are more diverse and more determined than ever — but also face more complex challenges. In this episode, host Michelle Reese speaks with Henry Smith and Clarice Wziatek about Rio Salado College’s Avanzar Program, funded through a Title V grant to serve the “new majority learner.” Henry shares how the program supports Pell-eligible, first-gen, and underserved students through personalized coaching and strategic outreach. Clarice offers an inside look at how academic life coaching helps students navigate barriers, find clarity, and design meaningful educational paths using tools like Gallup Strengths and the Stanford “Design Your Life” curriculum. Discover how empathy, empowerment, and tailored support can reshape the college experience — and change lives. 📢 Listen now to find out why Rio’s Avanzar team believes every student belongs — and every story matters.
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Guiding the New Majority: How Rio’s Avanzar Program Supports Today’s Students
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