According to the NCAA, for the entering classes between 1992-93 and 1995-96, 93 percent of African-American students at the College graduated in six years. Over the same period, 92 percent of African-American students at Harvard earned their degree.
"It's a testimony to the quality of the faculty and their willingness to support students educationally," said Dean of Admission and Financial Aid Tom Parker. "It's also a testimony to the dean's office and the quality of support they provide."
Acting Dean of Students Charri Boykin-East echoed this sentiment. "Many members of the faculty try to make personal connections with our students, both in and outside the classroom. Generally they take a genuine interest in the students and try to help them as much as possible throughout their time here at Amherst. Our students are not treated as just another number, but as individuals."
Boykin-East also credited the Student of Color Recruitment Program for the College's high graduation rate. "Through the efforts of the staff at the admissions office, we have been able to attract some of our most talented students."
"I'm simply thrilled," added Parker. "I've always said it's as important to retain African-American students as it is to recruit and admit them."
In terms of African-American graduation rate, the College surpassed its Little Three rivals. Eighty-four percent of African-American students in the entering classes between 1992-93 and 1995-96 graduated from Williams, which had a 94 percent overall graduation. At Wesleyan, the overall graduation rate during this time was 88 percent, while the rate for African-American students was 85 percent.
"I am not surprised at all that Amherst leads the nation in the graduation rate for Black students," added Boykin-East. "I believe throughout the College attempts are made to try and address the needs of students through the various programs and activities we have on campus. Through the small class sizes, to the advising system, class dean system and other resources such as the Quantitative Skills Center, the Writing Center, and student activities, this College tries very hard to help students achieve their maximum potential."
In the entering classes spanning from 1992-93 and 1995-96, the College boasted a 93 percent overall graduation rate, making it equal to the African-American students' rate. The overall graduation rate during this time was 89 percent at Colgate and 97 percent at Harvard, according to the NCAA.