Fresno State’s Supplemental Instruction Program was chosen as the recipient of the outstanding program award by the International Center for Supplemental Instruction at the University of Missouri, Kansas City.

The Fresno State program offers one-hour study sessions multiple times per week for students enrolled in historically difficult classes. Students work with peers and supplemental instruction leaders to gain a better understanding of the course material in an effort to improve their grades. Last year, more than 4,000 students attended supplemental instruction during more than 25,000 visits.

The award is given biannually to programs that demonstrate exceptional evidence in promoting student success, student development and overall program excellence. The honor will be conferred at the ninth International Conference for Supplemental Instruction in Kansas City May 25 to 27.

“This special recognition solidifies our Supplemental Instruction program as an international best practice,” said Tosha Giuffrida, director of Fresno State’s Learning Center.

Fresno State seniors Kaley Osborn and Reyroot Berry also earned recognition. Osborn, a student in the Craig School of Business, received the outstanding mentor award and Berry, a student in the College of Health and Human Services, was named outstanding leader for biology. These awards recognize students who demonstrate outstanding performance, impact to student learning and development, leadership and commitment.

Fresno State’s research, which received honorable mention for outstanding research and/or publication, demonstrates that regular supplemental instruction closes the achievement gap for underrepresented students.

“Supplemental instruction is one of those high-impact practices that enable students to maximize their academic performance and learn skills that will serve them well for a lifetime, “said Maxine McDonald, Fresno State’s associate vice president for student success.

The program at Fresno State is led by coordinator Mai Kou Vang and assistant coordinator Ruby S. Rico.

“I am very proud of the outstanding efforts the office of supplemental instruction has made in support of our student success initiatives,” said Dr. Frank Lamas, vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “These are prestigious awards and honors that serve to recognize the best of the best by the International Center for Supplemental Instruction.

For more information, contact the Learning Center at 559.278.3052 or watch this video.

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