What the Data Tells Us: Key Trends from the NODA Benchmark Navigator

When:  Feb 2, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 01:00 PM (CT)

Event Description

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the 2025 NODA Benchmark Navigator (formerly the NODA Databank) and the insights it provides into Orientation, Transition, and Retention (OTR) work across higher education. The most recent survey was distributed to 541 institutions of higher education, with 151 institutions completing one or more sections across six key areas: orientation, transition, retention, staffing, funding, and assessment. Responding institutions represent a range of institutional contexts, including public and private institutions, as well as two-year and four-year campuses.

This webinar will highlight key findings and emerging national trends reflected in the data, offering participants a clearer picture of how OTR programs are structured, resourced, and assessed. Participants will also be introduced to the Benchmark Navigator filterable spreadsheets and learn how to explore and compare data by institutional characteristics.

Whether you are assessing current practices, advocating for staffing or funding, preparing reports, or engaging in strategic planning, this webinar will demonstrate how the NODA Benchmark Navigator can be used as a practical, evidence-informed tool to support individual and team decision-making.

Learn more about the Benchmark Navigator on our website. 

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  1. Summarize key findings and emerging trends in Orientation, Transition, and Retention based on data from the NODA Benchmark Navigator.

  2. Navigate the Benchmark Navigator filterable spreadsheets to compare institutional practices and resource models by campus type and context.

  3. Use benchmark data to support advocacy and programming efforts.

PRESENTER(S):

This webinar is presented by the Benchmark Navigator Workgroup:

  • Brandon Cash, Director of Student Activities, St. Olaf College

  • McKaylee Copher, Director of Orientation and Outreach, University of Kentucky

  • Emily Ivey, Director of New Student and Family Programs, Texas Christian University

  • Jansen Rouillard, Director of New Student Orientation, University of Georgia

  • Angie Taylor, Director of Quality Enhancement, Texas Christian University 

  • Lisa Dela Cruz, NODA Director of Education

  • Jo Turcotte, NODA Director of Membership and Operations

REGISTRATION INFORMATION:

This webinar is free to attend. 



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