In February 2019, President Kesselman established the Retention Working Group to develop a structured and sustainable retention process that supports both Stockton's enrollment objectives and New Jersey's goal to close education equity gaps. 

The Retention Working Group, working collaboratively with the University's Strategic Planning process, Strategic Enrollment Management Planning (SEMP) Council, Provost's Council, and the Faculty and Student Senates, established specific goals to support the state's strategic plan as well as boost Stockton's third-semester retention and 4- and 6-year graduation rates. Particular emphasis was placed on under-represented minority students to support the institution's goals of continuing to diversify the student body and close equity gaps.

Collectively, the initial version of Stockton University's Retention Plan was finalized in October 2019. The plan is made up of seven projects consisting of specific goals and lead and lag indicators. These seven projects include: 

      - Proactive Outreach to Probationary Students

      - Launch Early Alert Form Campus Wide

      - Pilot Use of BCSSE Advising Data

      - Revise Withdrawal/Leave of Absence Form and Process

      - Expand First-Year Studies Peer Mentoring Program

      - Expand Appointment-Based Tutoring

      - Launch T.A.L.O.N.S. Student Assistant Pilot Program