The University of Michigan's Science Learning Center (SLC) has been honored with the 2024 Frank L. Christ Outstanding Learning Center of the Year Award by the International College Learning Center Association (ICLCA). This coveted accolade recognizes exemplary efforts in providing academic support and fostering student success within educational institutions across the nation.

 

The award ceremony took place during the ICLCA Annual Conference in Salt Lake City on September 25, 2024. SLC Director Joe Salvatore and Associate Director Stephanie Walker attended the event and proudly accepted the award on behalf of the entire SLC team.

 

Named after Frank L. Christ, a pioneering figure in the field of learning assistance, the award celebrates the ongoing dedication and innovative practices that align with Christ’s vision for academic support. Christ, renowned for his significant contributions over four decades, was the founder and coordinator of the award-winning Learning Assistance Support System at California State University, Long Beach, from 1972 to 1990. He also founded and served as the first president of the Western College Reading Association, now known as the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA). As a prolific author and advocate, Christ's work laid the foundation for best practices in learning support, highlighted by his numerous books, monographs, and scholarly articles.

 

The Science Learning Center at the University of Michigan has consistently demonstrated a commitment to providing high-quality learning assistance and continuously advancing its services and programs. Under the leadership of Joe Salvatore, the SLC has created robust support systems that address the evolving academic needs of students, ensuring an inclusive and effective learning environment.

 

“We are incredibly honored to receive the Frank L. Christ Outstanding Learning Center of the Year Award,” said Joe Salvatore. “This recognition is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication to supporting diverse students and fostering their ability to thrive in challenging science courses.”

 

An integral part of the SLC's mission is to support students from diverse backgrounds, offering an inclusive and accessible environment where all students feel a sense of belonging. The center is dedicated to ensuring that students from varied demographic and socio-economic backgrounds believe in their ability to succeed.

 

The SLC will be celebrating the award at an open house on Wednesday, October 30th from 1:30-3:30 PM at the SLC’s main location.