This qualitative case study examined the past and current student retention literature and research in order to fill voids in the literature and knowledge and contribute to increasing retention of more students by understanding Spalding University's culture and how they make it work to serve students. Data was collected from surveys, interviews with students, and observation of students, faculty and staff at Spalding and categorized into two themes of pre-college motivation for enrolling and institutional support for persisting at the university. The results support the efforts of this college to improve the retention rates of their students. The findings of this study reveal that Spalding's compassionate culture is supported across campus through initiatives and programs, academic and faculty support and student performance monitoring. The level of community interaction and student satisfaction is in line with best practices related to retention and persistence. The study also gives awareness of the views of student perceptions and how their perceptions impact retention. The review of practices and culture at Spalding combined with the perceptions of the students allows for further examination of programs and practices used at Spalding which continue to aid in improving retention rates. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]