The purpose of this qualitative evaluation was to understand how the Ascent program, a bridge initiative at Plymouth State University, programmatically addressed institutional concerns regarding student retention and persistence during its three-year pilot phase, according to the perceptions of past participants, faculty, and administrators. The evaluation was designed to provide an opportunity for direct stakeholders to articulate their authentic perceptions of the efficacy of the Ascent program as an initiative developed to mitigate student departure. To gain this insight, a focus group was conducted with prior Ascent students who are now in mentorship roles in the program, and semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with Ascent instructors and administrators. Many student participants articulated that their participation in the program aided in their transition to college, provided valuable social support, and increased self-confidence. Additionally, it was found that student mentorship, increased academic advising and advocacy, and exposure to campus resources were successful aspects of the programmatic structure. While the Ascent program was not found to have mitigated student departure, the successful aspects of the program that should be considered for implementation in future departure mitigation efforts include increasing student support through building positive relationships with faculty and peers, implementing rigorous advising practices, and providing opportunities for foundational academic skill building. The findings from this study may inform future retention and persistence initiatives at Plymouth State University and may provide insight for other institutions of higher education that are working to address student attrition. [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.]