STORRS, Conn. (AP) -- The University of Connecticut is creating a living and learning community for black men in response to low graduation and retention rates among the school's male African-American students.

The ScHOLAR2RS (Scholars) House will be located at a new dormitory set to open in the fall.

Dorm residents will receive academic, career-development and social support. The voluntary program has room for 43 students who are expected to be mostly freshmen and sophomores.

Universities in other states have similar programs.

The University of Connecticut's program for black men is one of several targeting certain student populations that will be housed in the new dorm.