Retention has been indicated as one of the greatest weaknesses in online instruction. While a preponderance of literature about online instruction is available, concrete ideas about how to retain students are lacking. A DHHS grant for over one million dollars made it possible for the Wright State University College of Nursing and Health (Dayton, Ohio) to provide an Internet option enabling registered nurses to obtain a bachelor's degree. Now in the third year of the program the College has maintained an excellent retention rate ranging from 85 to 93%. Factors found to positively influence retention included: enhancing the comfort level of students with the technology, creating a sensitive online faculty persona generating trust in the environment, and addressing safety and security needs to support highly interactive experiences. These strategies promoted the development of relationships with "classroom" colleagues and fostered linkages necessary for students to remain connected to the learning experiences and continue to degree completion. (Abstract authors)