Community college student success relies on an examination of critical elements affecting the retention of first-year students. This mixed method study examined the effects of financial aid on community college student retention at a large multi-campus college in Charlotte, North Carolina. The study examined the relationship of financial aid status, selected first-year academic factors, precollege demographics, financial aid awards, and retention. Guided by the theory of action, data were collected from institutional records, a researcher-developed student survey, and two student focus groups. Findings offer insight into how academic, demographic, and financial aid factors during students' first year at a community college affect their intention to be retained to the second year. [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.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]