Cedarville Magazine, Spring 2014

Holistic Approach When The Cove began 10 years ago, we began designing programs and services to reach all students — freshmen to seniors, engineering to education, self-confident to struggling. We interviewed hundreds of students, poured over incredible amounts of survey data, researched best practices, held brainstorming sessions with small groups, and listened to students’ input. What we learned fueled our vision, and the resulting growth has been stunning. Since our 2008 move to one of the most heavily trafficked academic buildings on campus, every program we have offered has increased. Last fall alone we held more than 1,200 hours of tutoring sessions. We now provide a variety of resources to help with the learning process, including online tutoring and tutoring labs, one- on-one sessions, and academic peer coaches. We offer courses for first-year students, academic probation students, and Intermediate Algebra students. We provide a range of services for students with disabilities. We also plan fun and crazy events to help students master study skills, timemanagement, and organization. The variety of programs we offer allows students to customize their strategies with the most helpful services. We look at the big picture, listening to students’ stories and suggesting holistic academic support. Prospective families often hear that Cedarville is tough — it is. There is academic rigor, but it comes with support. Parents are often surprised to know the most common group of students we work with are those who had A/B averages in high school, often at the top of their class. But in their first semester, after they get a few tests and papers back, they find they didn’t develop the kind of skills in high school that they need for college. College learning requires that students make the leap from memorizing facts to critical thinking. We show students how to adjust to new ways of studying to enhance their learning, which in turn can raise their grades. Biblical Foundation Years ago when The Cove was just getting started, President Bill Brown gave a sermon based on 2 Kings 4 about a woman of faith who had nothing but a jar of oil (Read it — it’s an unforgettable account of God’s provision!). I was struck by the way God took what little she had and multiplied it to provide for her needs. The department was a blank canvas then — we had no money and very few programs. We had a dream and a vision, but no idea how they would materialize. That week I took an old jar and tied it with twine and a tag that read “2 Kings 4.” It still sits on my desk as a visual reminder that God often provides in ways that surpass our explanations. Today I am amazed by what God has done with The Cove. Our physical space includes a tutoring center, comfortable office space to consult with current and prospective students, testing rooms, a workroom, a conference room, and an inspiring entrance designed to make each visitor feel immediately at ease. Although we have an inviting space, it’s more than the natural sunlight or colors on the walls. Although we strategically follow current research, it’s more than implementing best practices. Although we love building relationships with students, it’s more than hosting them for fun-filled “Syllabus Crunch” events. We are successful because everything we do at The Cove begins with Christ as our foundation. Our team unity and commitment is critical to howwe serve students.This team loves the Lord with all of their hearts, souls, andminds.They inspireme daily with their passionate effort and professionalism. Our team dynamic is no accident — we pray for each other, for students, and for our University. Beyond helping students ace a test or write a solid paper, our purpose is to glorify God by helping students achieve what He’s calling them to do. The values, habits, and disciplines we instill in them today (do your best this day, this semester) will translate to their careers, their communities, and their lives. They can leave Cedarville well on the path to excellence because they have claimed who God has made them to be, and they know how to fully use their gifts for the glory of God and the cause of Christ. That is the Cedarville difference. Kim Ahlgrim is an Associate Dean for Academic Enrichment and an Assistant Professor for Developmental Education. She received her bachelor’s degree from National Louis University and her master’s degree from Wright State University. She is a nationally certified Academic Coach. Learn more about The Cove at cedarville. edu/thecove . NCAA DIVISION II ENDORSES THE COVE “The Cove is absolutely one of the best academic support programs in the world of NCAA Division II; it’s one of a kind,” said Jill Willson, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II Governance Contractor. Willson visited Cedar ville’s campus throughout its pursuit of NCAA II status. Cedarville became an NCAA II institution in 2012, joining 315 other Division II schools. In addition to gaining confidence from the NCAA, the Cove is receiving acclaim from a variety of private and public colleges and universities. Representatives from several other universities have contacted The Cove and have scheduled campus visits and consultations. The Cove’s impact on student success is evidenced through Cedarville’s outstanding graduation rate of 73 percent, soaring above the 48 percent average for NCAA II schools. Cedarville’s 94 percent job placement rate also speaks to the high level of student preparation. Cedarville Magazine | 23