This presentation focuses on holistic strategies for managing the New York State Excelsior Scholarship with a focus on student retention. The inception of this state scholarship brought new regulations and eligibility requirements like no other aid. This workshop guides participants through the process used by SUNY Fredonia to address common misconceptions surrounding the significant eligibility requirements, using the lens of both students and academic advisors. Let's identify success strategies based on our collective successes and challenges with Excelsior. Leave with our “toolbox” plus our collective contributions.