The Science Learning Center (SLC) at the University of Michigan recently received multiple nominations for LSA's Outstanding Staff Team Award. This nomination recognizes the center's exemplary contribution to fostering academic excellence and innovation on campus.
The SLC team comprises dedicated professionals, including Joe Salvatore, Director; Stephanie Walker, Associate Director; Barb Oliver, Department Manager; Kelley Emerson, Assistant Director; Amelia Parnis, Tutoring Program Manager; Holly Ploch, Study Group Manager; Matthew Ungar, Administrative Assistant for the Tutoring Program; and Alli Hanrahan, Administrative Assistant for the Study Group Program.
Last fall, the SLC earned the Frank Christ Outstanding Learning Center Award from the International College Learning Center Association, a testament to its national standing and impact. From 2023 to 2024, the team engaged in a strategic review as part of the award application process. This involved rigorous evaluations of best practices, service delivery, and community engagement, showcasing the center’s impact on over 4,000 study group participants and more than 120,000 student visits annually.
"Their effort to critically analyze and advance the SLC’s services exemplifies their commitment to our students," noted Perry Fittrer, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Education and Student Affairs, in his nomination letter.
The award process has further spurred the SLC to establish ambitious goals for the academic year 2024-25, including revitalizing partnerships and enhancing student engagement. Central to these goals is a renewed commitment to inclusivity, exemplified by initiatives like restarting the campus-wide tutor summit and improving tutor/facilitator training with a grant from the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education.
At the heart of the SLC’s success is their collective spirit and commitment to innovation, making them a model among college learning centers nationwide. Their dedication not only benefits the University of Michigan community but also sets a standard for excellence in learning support services.
