The purpose of this qualitative exploratory study was to explore the strategies needed to increase student retention rates and decrease dropout rates in a higher education organization. The problem addressed in the study was the lack of strategies that managers use to increase retention rates and decrease dropout rates in a higher education organization. The research question asked, what mentoring strategies are needed by higher educational managers to increase retention rates and decrease dropout rates in a higher education organization. The exploratory qualitative study used semi-structured interviews to gain information from 10 participants who were managers from all managerial levels. Participants were employed at different institutions in higher education and various educational backgrounds ranged from mentor to vice president. Participants were employed and their educational backgrounds ranged from bachelor's degree to doctoral degree. Data were analyzed by identifying themes that emerged through the participant responses with the use of Dedoose. The following themes emerged: (a) mentorship responsibilities of educational managers, (b) higher education preparation for student success, (c) relationship building in higher education, (d) community support connections with students, and (e) combine college expectations with student experiences. The key findings support the suggestion that mentoring strategies needed by higher educational managers can increase retention rates and decrease dropout rates, but it is clear that there are many managers that lack mentoring processes. This study has provided evidence to support the need for mentoring strategies that can be used by higher educational managers and the strategies can be achieved through identified themes. [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://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]