Samford University's athletics teams tied for the national lead in graduation success rate with a score of 99 in the NCAAs latest Graduation Success Rate (GSR) Report.

The high success rate of Samford’s student athletes is due in part to the significant amount of support they receive through the Samford University Academic Enhancement Center. One of several ways these students receive support is through the Communication Sciences and Disorders Literacy Clinic.

The clinic is comprised of speech language pathology graduate students and faculty supervisors who provide reading screenings to all incoming freshman football players. Players who exhibit difficulty reading are then referred for more comprehensive evaluations. These assessments provide information needed for treatment planning and for students to receive accommodations through Disability Resources.

The need for screening can be common. Many students grow up in small, rural towns that are often underserved at grade-school levels which can lead to gaps in the learning experience.

Student-athlete Jason Houston was screened as a freshman and underwent a comprehensive assessment. Houston was determined to be a good candidate for treatment and has since received instructed literacy intervention for two years and has made significant advancements.

The literacy clinic continues to help fill in the gaps for Samford students and athletes. Houston’s chance to practically improve his reading skills has had a major impact on his life and several others.