BulldogsTHRIVE

Overview

Don’t just go to college—THRIVE through it.

BulldogsTHRIVE is a high-impact student success initiative at Barton College designed to support and empower students, especially those who are first-generation or from underrepresented backgrounds. Rooted in the legacy of AVID and TRIO programs, Bulldogs Thrive offers academic and personal development opportunities that enrich the entire college experience.

What You’ll Experience

Members will:

• Engage in monthly team-building and leadership development activities
• Improve academic performance through one-on-one check-ins with the Director of Academic Support
• Develop stronger time management and accountability skills
• Build a sense of belonging and community through shared experiences
• Foster deep relationships with peers and mentors

BartonTHRIVE is perfect for:

• First-generation college students
• Students from low-income backgrounds
• Underrepresented populations
• Students who desire personalized academic and personal support
• Those willing to participate in campus engagement, mentoring, and reflection activities

You Won’t Be Alone on This Journey

Each student is supported by a dedicated Pathway Leader—your direct contact for check-ins, guidance, and encouragement. Your Pathway Leader is here to:

• Help you set and meet goals
• Connect you to campus resources
• Encourage your leadership potential
• Celebrate your wins—big and small

You’ll have consistent, meaningful support throughout your Barton experience.

Meet Your BulldogsTHRIVE Leader

Roberta Draughn is a dynamic and detail-oriented higher education professional with extensive experience in academic support, student retention, and collegiate athletics. She currently serves as the Director of Academic Support, Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach, BulldogsTHRIVE Pathway Leader and member of the Behavioral Intervention Team at Barton College. She helps to lead campus-wide initiatives to promote student achievement, engagement, and resilience. Roberta is pursuing a Doctor of Strategic Leadership at Liberty University and holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Strategic Leadership and a Middle Grades Licensure in English from Barton College, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Literature, Language, and Communication from Elizabeth City State University. With a proven ability to plan and coordinate diverse events and projects, she is highly skilled in developing and implementing effective academic plans while managing multiple responsibilities. Roberta is especially known for building strong student relationships and executing strategies that foster academic success, persistence, and personal growth among underrepresented and first-generation college students. 

BulldogsTHRIVE Journey

Your Year with BulldogsTHRIVE

• Orientation & Welcome Celebration
• Monthly Workshops (academic, career, and personal development)
• Campus & Community Resource Tours
• Leadership Spotlights & Peer Recognition
• Social and Cultural Events
• End-of-Year Recognition & Celebration

Each student will track milestones and receive guided reflection activities to promote growth and self-awareness.

Admissions Requirements:

Who Can Join Bulldogs Thrive?

Any incoming Barton Freshman or Transfer student may apply.

Strongly encouraged for:

• First-generation students
• Underrepresented or low-income students
• Students with a willingness to attend required events and remain engaged throughout the year
• Students commitment to academic progress and community involvement

A short application and welcome meeting with the Director of Academic Support, Roberta Draughn, are required.

Scholarship Opportunities

Yes, You Can Get Paid to Thrive!

Bulldogs Thrive offers competitive scholarships for participating students who:

• Maintain active involvement in the program
• Attend required events and activities
• Demonstrate commitment to academic and personal growth

Scholarship funds are awarded to help ease financial stress and allow students to focus on learning and achievement.