Legacy League Program

The goal of the Legacy League at the University of West Georgia is to significantly increase retention, progression, and graduation (RPG) rates of men attending the University of West Georgia.

In 2000, the University System of Georgia verified that USG institutions enrolled a low percentage of African-American males in comparison to the percentage of African-American males in the population. For example, within the USG, African-American females out-numbered African-American males two to one (28,000 to 14,000) even though the percentage of African-American males and females in the population was about the same. A similar situation exists in almost every University System in the country.

In response, the USG developed an initiative aimed at identifying barriers to the participation of African-American males in University System of Georgia colleges and universities. The end result was the Legacy League. The initiative focuses on the retention, progression, and graduation (RPG) of African-American males at USG institutions. This program operated successfully at UWG from 2002 to 2025.

In light of national discourse and public policies expressing dissatisfaction with federally funded programs designed for, but not exclusive to underrepresented groups, UWG has reimagined its approach to student success. Drawing on the proven best practices of the African American Male Initiative, UWG launched The Legacy League in Spring 2025 to foster a strong sense of belonging among all men at the university.

More than a program, The Legacy League is a community committed to retention, progress, and graduation (RPG) while championing the spirit of upward mobility and intergenerational mobility. By welcoming all men at UWG into a structured, supportive environment, the initiative continues its legacy of empowerment, achievement, and long-term impact.

Legacy League First-Year Program

PURPOSE

The Legacy League First-Year Program or Legacy League Learning Community helps male students adjust academically and socially to college life.

Students are enmeshed in an environment of mutual support designed to foster academic success. During fall and spring semesters of their freshman year, students enroll in and attend common core courses together, including XIDS 2002. Merging educational and social activities allows students to make friends easily, establish study partners, and develop positive connections with faculty, which increases chances of success. The Legacy League Learning Community increases opportunities for students to get involved on and off-campus (e.g., student organizations, community service, and more). 

Students' academic progress is monitored.  Attempts are made to address issues impacting student success whether it is academic, vocational, or personal/social as soon as they become known. In addition, Learning Community students receive individualized mentoring through the Legacy League Peer Mentoring Program.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Legacy League First-Year Program participants are selected prior to classes beginning for the FALL term. Students must enroll in the fall because the duration of the program is one full year (August - April). To enroll, students must meet the following criteria:

1. Potential participants are identified and personally invited after students meet all requirements to be officially admitted to the University. 
2. Complete and return an interest form.
3. Complete interview process. It is highly recommended that parent(s) and/or guardian(s) participate in the interview with their student(s). 
4. Must enroll in XIDS 2002 and take required courses of the Legacy League Learning Community.
5. Expected to meet expectations of program and be committed to program goals.

While helpful in determining interest, it is important to understand that selecting "Legacy League" as one of your top three choices for your first-year program when completing registration for Freshmen Orientation, completing this information on the online registration form for Orientation does not guarantee participation. Participation is determined by the Legacy League Program.

Students and parents interested in learning more about the Legacy League and the first-year program are welcome to call (678) 839-5400 or send an email message by clicking on "Ask Legacy League" under "Request Information".

UWG alumni who participated in Legacy League and are interested in joining the Alumni Council should contact the Legacy League Coordinator.