What is Learning Excellence?
Learning Excellence is a fee-based, academic support program that provides comprehensive services for any student at High Point University. The program is beneficial for any student who needs help with transitioning to college, organization, time management, study skills, or strategies to help with learning differences. This impactful program of individualized support develops a learning action plan specific to each student, so they receive the personalized attention and the encouragement needed to be successful. Learning Excellence is a semester-long program, and there is no obligation to continue for the following semester.
Students wishing to join the program should submit an application prior to the start of each semester. The program has limited availability, and spots are filled on a first-come first-served basis.
Program Overview
Student enrolled in Learning Excellence will receive the following services:
- Individual instruction for improving academic skills, organization and time management
- Positive coaching to help students stay motivated and on-track for success
- Encouragement of self-advocacy and self-determination
- Access to professional tutors for writing and math
- Priority registration beginning second semester of program enrollment
- Assistance in establishing relationships with instructors and advisors
- Guidance in utilizing and accessing assistance from the Office of Accessibility Resources and other campus resources
Program Services
Weekly Meetings: Students will meet with their Learning Specialist once a week for an hour a week to review academic progress and evaluate and develop academic skills. An action plan is created each week to address each student’s assignment due dates, learning needs and goals.
Tutoring: The Learning Excellence Specialist will coordinate tutoring for their students. Students will meet with professional tutors exclusive to the Learning Excellence Program for writing and math support. Students will also meet with course-specific peer tutors provided by Academic Services. All tutors submit tutor reports to the Learning Excellence Specialists.
Study Time: Students are recommended and encouraged to complete at least 10 hours of study time per week. Study time hours are tracked electronically each week.
Weekly Reports: Parents receive a detailed report each week indicating any grades that have been posted, any instructor feedback that has been submitted and the Learning Specialist’s observations.
Foundations for Academic Success Course: Incoming freshmen enrolling in Learning Excellence must take ADV 1101: Foundations for Academic Success. Incoming freshmen who have not taken ADV 1101 will be required to do so upon admittance into the Learning Excellence Program.
Applying to the Learning Excellence Program
Students are enrolled in the Learning Excellence Program on a first-come, first-served, semester by semester basis. Incoming freshmen must be admitted to the university prior to enrolling in the Learning Excellence Program.
Learning Excellence is designed to support students who want to improve their academic skills while learning how to use High Point University services and support programs. The success of students participating in Learning Excellence is dependent upon their personal involvement, cooperation, and dedication to academic progress and success, as well as the support of their parents. Students and parents are required to complete and sign the Learning Excellence Application indicating their commitment to the program.
Every application will be reviewed, and notification of acceptance will be given prior to the start of the semester of program enrollment.
Once accepted into the Learning Excellence Program, a family meeting will be recommended to review expectations and goals. For incoming freshmen, this will occur during Move-In Day of Summer Advantage and/or Move-In Weekend for the Fall semester.
Program Enrollment
The program is open to any High Point University student with a desire to cultivate and improve their academic abilities. Incoming freshmen should be enrolled in the university before submitting an application to the Learning Excellence Program. The Learning Excellence Program cost for the 2021-2022 academic year is $8,000 per semester. Because there is limited enrollment and high demand, a $500 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your student’s spot. There is no obligation to continue the following semester. This program has a limit as to how many students it can serve each semester, and spots are filled on a first-come first-served basis.
Completed Learning Excellence applications must be scanned/emailed to Britt Carl, Director of Learning Excellence. Her contact information is provided below:
Britt Carl, Program Director
bcarl@highpoint.edu
Phone: (336) 841-9490
LEARNING EXCELLENCE FOR SUMMER :
An abbreviated version of the Learning Excellence Program is provided during the summer. The emphasis will be placed on a twice weekly meeting with a Learning Excellence Specialist to focus on academic progress, study skills, organization, and time management. The Learning Excellence Summer Program is available to students in Summer Sessions I and II and Summer Advantage. For Summer Online courses, students will connect with their Specialists via phone, FaceTime, Skype, or email.
MEET THE TEAM
Britt Carl
Director of Learning Excellence
411 Smith Library | 336-841-9490
bcarl@highpoint.edu
Britt Carl serves as the Director of Learning Excellence. Britt joined High Point University in August 2013 and served as a Success Coach, Senior Success Coach, and Director of Student Success in the Office of Student Success before becoming the Director of Learning Excellence in November 2020. Britt received her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from the University of Louisville. Prior to joining the HPU family, she served as the Assistant Director of Admissions at Mary Baldwin College in Virginia. Britt has a passion for proactively coaching and helping students achieve their academic and personal goals. She has built strong relationships with faculty and student support staff on campus, and she enjoys helping students expand their support network through these partnerships she has established. Britt has over 12 years of experience in higher education and she is an active member of the National Academic Advising Association.
Leigh Barnwell
Learning Excellence Specialist
413 Smith Library | 336-841-9834
lbarnwel@highpoint.edu
Leigh Barnwell is a native of Greensboro, North Carolina. She received her Bachelors of Science Degree in Biology from North Carolina Central University and a Master’s in Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Leigh also holds a Post Master’s Certification in Educational Leadership and School Administration from UNCG and serves as the science instructor for the TRIO Upward Bound Program at North Carolina A&T State University. Prior to coming to High Point University, Leigh was a middle grades science teacher for nine years. During her time in the school system, she founded the Kiser Kings Mentoring Program for young minority males, which focuses on cultivating the diverse skills, talents, and leadership abilities within young men to ensure their success in school, the community, and in life. The program is still in existence and is ran in conjunction with the NC A&T State University organization, Kingdom of Youth. Leigh is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and an Independent Beauty Consultant with Mary Kay. In her free time, Leigh enjoys traveling, attending live sporting and music events, volunteering, and spending time with family and friends.
Brannon Bynum
Learning Excellence Specialist
409 Smith Library | 336-841-9056
bbynum1@highpoint.edu
Brannon Bynum received his Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from North Carolina A&T State University and is currently pursuing his Masters of Public Affairs with a concentration in Nonprofit Management and Development from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Prior to joining the HPU family in December 2020, Brannon worked within the Guilford County Schools System as a Band Director for ten years, and he served as an Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Recruitment at North Carolina A&T State University for eight years. Brannon looks forward to assessing the goals and needs of each student, facilitating actionable steps for their academic success and empowering students to achieve their goals. In his free time, Brannon enjoys playing and teaching music. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
Tara Craver
Learning Excellence Specialist
444 Smith Library | 336-841-9267
tcraver@hiphpoint.edu
Tara Craver has been employed at High Point University since August 2019. Prior to coming to HPU, she worked as a Language Development Specialist at Forsyth County Day School in Lewisville, NC. Tara earned a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education with a concentration in Learning Disabilities from UNC Wilmington. She has also been trained at the Associate and Certified Levels in the Orton-Gillingham method of teaching language skills. For eighteen years, Tara taught students in grades 9-12 who were diagnosed as having learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia and/or ADD or ADHD, in a one-on-one setting. She provided diagnostic and prescriptive instruction to help these students develop and improve their reading, writing, and time management skills so that they were able to graduate and go on to pursue higher education. Tara is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. She is a member of IDA, the International Dyslexia Association, and she enjoys keeping abreast of current research and best practices in this field.
Lance Dunlap
Learning Excellence Specialist
405 Smith Library | 336-841-9319
ldunlap@highpoint.edu
Lance Dunlap joined the High Point University staff in August 2012. Lance has previously worked in the Office of Student Life and Office of Student Success at HPU. Lance holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a concentration in Rhetoric from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master’s in Education with a concentration in Student Affairs Administration from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Lance is a first-generation college graduate and enjoys assisting young adults with the transition to college and developing the personal responsibility/skills necessary to organize their lives and achieve their goals. Lance has previously served as the head coach for the HPU club golf team. In his free time, Lance enjoys basketball, music, golf, fishing, and activities with his wife and daughter.
Jordyn Fleming
Learning Excellence Specialist
402 Smith Library | 336-841-9513
jflemin1@highpoint.edu
Jordyn Fleming joined High Point University in August 2018 and served as an Admissions Counselor before becoming a Learning Excellence Specialist in December 2020. Jordyn received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from East Carolina University and has training in teaching students with behavioral disorders. Prior to joining HPU, Jordyn worked as a Prevention Specialist for Keystone Substance Abuse Services for two years. When not working, Jordyn enjoys traveling, watching the Philadelphia Eagles, and spending time with her family and friends.
Jen Grider
Learning Excellence Specialist
407 Smith Library | 336-841-9446
jgrider@highpoint.edu
Jennifer Grider joined HPU in January 2014. She has served as a Learning Excellence Specialist and Professional Mathematics Tutor. Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Slippery Rock University, where she was a founding member of university’s chapter of Kappa Mu Epsilon. Jennifer is currently pursuing her Master of Education in Teaching and Learning Theory, with a concentration in Student Services, from Liberty University, and is expected to graduate in October 2020. Prior to joining HPU, Jennifer worked for the North Carolina Community College system for three years as mathematics instructor and tutor, and as an academic success coach. Before making a career change into Higher Education, Jennifer was an actuarial analyst where she gained corporate training, management, and mentor ship experience. Jennifer is an active Girl Scout Leader in her community. She has served in leadership positions and on the board for local volunteer organizations. On a personal note, Jennifer enjoys biking, hiking, and gardening, and spending time with her husband and children.
Kaitlyn Hurt
Learning Excellence Specialist
446 Smith Library | 336-841-9436
kthrusto@highpoint.edu
Kaitlyn Hurt is a two-time Appalachian State University alumnus. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and her Master’s degree in College Student Development. Before coming to High Point University, Kaitlyn worked as a College Success Coach in the North Carolina Community College system. She also has prior experience in working with non-traditional college students and is passionate about working with student veterans. As a Learning Excellence Specialist, Kaitlyn enjoys working with students to find strategies that allow them to succeed in the classroom. In her free time, Kaitlyn enjoys traveling with her husband, reading, and trying out new recipes.
Kendra Matthews
Learning Excellence Specialist
406 Smith Library | 336-841-9417
kmatthew@highpoint.edu
Kendra Matthews received her Bachelors of Science in Dietetics and Masters of Science in Food Science and Nutrition from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She also received a Masters of Teaching from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Kendra has a love for student services and enjoys helping students reach their full potential. With over eleven years of higher education experience prior to joining High Point University in December 2019, Kendra Matthews recently served as an Instructor with Guilford Technical Community College. Throughout her career, she has served as Recruitment Coordinator and NC Teaching Fellows Director at North Carolina A&T State University School of Education. Kendra has also served as university Early College Academy Liaison, as well as Family Consumer Science teacher in both Guilford and Winston-Salem Forsyth County schools. The role in which she cherishes the most is being a proud mom to her beautiful son, Anwar. In her spare time, Kendra enjoys traveling, attending live sporting and music events, shopping, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Katherine Quinn
Learning Excellence Specialist
404 Smith Library | 336-841-9360
kquinn3@highpoint.edu
Katherine Quinn received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from SUNY Brockport, a graduate certificate in Climate Change from Appalachian State University (ASU) and is currently completing her Master of Arts in Experimental Psychology from ASU. Prior to joining the Learning Excellence team, Katherine worked as a collegiate instructor, teaching cognitive psychology to undergraduate students at ASU. She also led college students in their work at ASU’s Sustainable Development Farm. Additionally, she has worked as an elementary summer school teacher and as an AmeriCorps VISTA serving high school students experiencing homelessness. Katherine has a passion for helping students meet their academic goals while maintaining mental wellness and balance in their lives. Outside of work, Katherine enjoys hiking, drawing, and spending time with her partner, family, and friends.
Sarah Schoultz
Learning Excellence Specialist
430 Smith Library | 336-841-9610
sschoult@highpoint.edu
Sarah Schoultz is excited to be a part of the Learning Excellence department! Sarah is originally from Upstate New York and graduated from S.U.N.Y Fredonia. She moved to North Carolina after graduation and has lived in Greensboro ever since! Sarah previously worked as an Admissions Counselor for an international boarding school in Greensboro and has also worked within the public school system for many years. Sarah and her husband started their own small business in 2014 and successfully sold it in 2016. Sarah made her way to High Point University in 2019 after hearing about so many of the wonderful things the University has to offer and she knew she wanted to be a part of it! Sarah started as an Admissions Counselor for Central North Carolina at HPU and thoroughly enjoyed working with those students. She teaches Group Fitness classes on the side and am involved with her synagogue, Temple Emanuel in Greensboro. Sarah is married and has 2 wonderful children.
Shannon Thomae
Learning Excellence Specialist
408 Smith Library | 336-841-9328
sthomae@highpoint.edu
Shannon Thomae received a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Education in Special Education from North Carolina State University. Prior to joining High Point University as a Learning Excellence Specialist in January 2021, she worked for 25 years as a special education teacher for Guilford County Schools. Shannon served many years on the School Based Leadership Team and as the Exceptional Children’s Department Chair for Grimsley High School. During her time in public education, Shannon took pride in building positive relationships with her students and families and worked diligently to teach students the skills needed to become independent, life-long learners. It is her desire to support students in developing strong self-advocacy skills so that they can achieve their personal goals. Outside of work, she is the proud mother of two teens and enjoys spending time with friends, walking her dog, relaxing at the beach, cooking, hiking, and traveling with her husband and family.
The Office of Academic Services at High Point University is dedicated to helping students improve their academic performance. The office is responsible for coordinating Academic Advising and the Foundations of Academic Success course (ADV-1101). Additional student support programs that report to the office include the Academic Services Center and Disability Support.
The Office of Academic Services coordinates and provides assistance in areas of academic performance related to academic and life skills with specific reference to exam preparation, testing strategies, test anxiety, reading, note taking skills, time and stress management and other areas requested by students. The office follows the academic progress and development of all students with an emphasis upon freshman students. It provides academic counseling for any student having academic difficulty and provides advising support to all students and faculty advisors. Through the Academic Services Center (ASC), the office supports students with disabilities and the student-athlete study hall (in coordination with the Assistant Director of Athletics/Senior Woman Administrator/Athletic Academic Advisor).
Mission Statement
The mission of the High Point University Office of Academic Services is to support the academic progress, success, and retention of undergraduate students by offering varied educational programs, activities, and services in a certified, supportive learning environment.
