Learning Excellence is a fee-based, academic coaching program that helps students develop the following important academic skills: organization, time management, note-taking, test preparation, study strategies, problem solving, active listening, and self-advocacy. The program is beneficial for any student who needs help achieving their academic success and academic goals. This program provides personalized academic coaching and tracking for stu...
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What is Learning Excellence?
Contact
Daily from 8:30am — 5:00pm.
Britt Carl
Program Director
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 for the subsequent semester
- Assistance in establishing relationships with instructors and advisors
- Guidance in utilizing and accessing assistance from the Office of Accessibility Resources and other campus resources
Services
Weekly Meetings: Students will meet with their Learning Excellence Specialist each week for academic coaching and/or life skills support. There are four tiers of support available in the Learning Excellence Program and families must select the most appropriate tier option for their student. An action plan is created each week to address each student’s needs and goals.
Tutoring: The Learning Excellence Specialist will coordinate tutoring for their students. Students will have the opportunity to meet with professional tutors exclusive to the Learning Excellence Program for writing, math, and reading support. Students may also meet with course-specific peer tutors provided by the Office of Academic Services. All tutors submit tutor feedback reports to the Learning Excellence Specialists.
Weekly Reports: Parents receive a detailed report at the end of each week regarding their student’s progress for that week. The report includes details from the student’s meeting with their Learning Excellence Specialist and tutor notes from the student’s tutoring session(s) for that week.
Foundations for Academic Success Course: Students enrolling in Learning Excellence must take ADV 1101 Foundations for Academic Success during their first semester in the program with the exception of students in the Graduate School & Career Focused tier.
Tiered Pricing
Incoming Students
Applying to the Learning Excellence Program
Incoming students must be admitted to the university prior to applying to 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, partnership, and dedication to academic progress and success, as well as the support of their parents. Students and parents are required to complete an application for the Learning Excellence program and share their student’s academic background and history on the application.
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 prior to the start of the academic term will be recommended to review expectations and goals.
Program Enrollment
The program is open to any High Point University student with a desire to cultivate and improve their academic abilities and life skills required for success. Incoming freshmen should be enrolled in the university before submitting an application to the Learning Excellence Program. Because there is limited enrollment and high demand, a $500 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your student’s spot after receiving an acceptance into the program. Families renew Learning Excellence on a semester-by-semester basis; therefore, 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.
Learning Excellence for Summer
Learning Excellence support is available to students enrolled in HPU summer online, Summer Session I, Summer Session II, and Summer Advantage. During the summer, only the Learning Accelerator tier of support is available. Due to the nature of summer school classes, students enrolled in Learning Excellence for summer classes have two 30 minute meetings with their Learning Excellence Specialist per week. These meetings focus on academic progress, study skills, organization, and time management. For Summer Online courses, students will connect with their Learning Excellence Specialist via a virtual format.
Professional Tutoring
MEET THE TEAM
Britt Carl
Senior Director of Learning Excellence
411 Smith Library | 336-841-9490
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.
Meghan Miles
Learning Excellence Coordinator
4th Floor Smith Library | 336-841-9327
Meghan Miles joined the Learning Excellence program in December 2022. Meghan received her undergraduate degree in Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a Non-profit Management certificate through Duke University. Throughout her career, Meghan has worked with students and families in various settings. As she has rising college-aged children, Meghan appreciates the value provided by the Learning Excellence program and looks forward to working with students and families to support them through the college experience.
Meghan is originally from Connecticut and especially misses the snowy winter weather of the northeast. Since relocating to High Point, Meghan has fallen in love with High Point University and has enjoyed watching as it has grown. In her free time, Meghan enjoys spending time with her husband and children, especially on our rare snow days!
Denise Ballard, M.S.
Learning Excellence Specialist
402 Smith Library | 336-841-9670
Denise Ballard received her Bachelor of Science degree in English/Secondary Education from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She earned her Master of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Western Carolina University. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from ASHA (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association), as well as licensure from the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists. Prior to joining High Point University as a Learning Excellence Specialist, Denise worked for 18 years in private practice and NC Public Schools as a Speech-Language Pathologist. In private practice, she worked with infant-toddlers with speech-language developmental delays and disorders in both the home and daycare settings. In NC Public Schools, she provided Speech-Language therapy services to students with IEPs (Individual Education Plans) ranging from Preschool through High School. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, watching films, and spending time with her husband and daughter.
Leigh Barnwell
Senior Learning Excellence Specialist
413 Smith Library | 336-841-9834
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.
Carissa Burris
Learning Excellence Specialist
434 Smith Library | 336-841-9772
Carissa Burris joined the Learning Excellence Program at High Point University in January 2023. Carissa received her Bachelor of Science in Special Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Carissa served 5 years in the public school system as a Special Education teacher. Carissa has experience teaching diverse learners and has a comprehensive understanding of various learning differences and appropriate interventions to support student success. She has a passion for helping students develop executive functioning skills that are needed to be successful in college and beyond . Carissa’s strengths include helping students develop self-advocacy skills, building meaningful relationships with students and parents, and providing various accountability measures that assist with students’ success. Carissa enjoys spending time outside with her husband and dog Stella, crafting, reading, and baking.
Brannon Bynum
Learning Excellence Specialist
409 Smith Library | 336-841-9056
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.
Jordyn Christian
Learning Excellence Specialist
407 Smith Library | 336-841-9513
Jordyn Christian 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.
Lance Dunlap
Assistant Director of Learning Excellence
405 Smith Library | 336-841-9319
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.
Jenny Enright
Learning Excellence Specialist
404 Smith Library | 336-841-9267
Jenny received her Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and holds National Board Certification in Secondary Social Studies. Jenny joined the High Point University Learning Excellence Program in August 2021 after a 30 year career teaching high school social studies in Guilford County. Jenny is passionate about working with young people to reach their academic and public service goals. As an exercise enthusiast, Jenny enjoys spin classes and taking long walks with her dogs. Traveling with friends and family is a favorite pastime.
Taylor Gonzales
Learning Excellence Specialist
406 Smith Library | 336-841-4617
Taylor Gonzales joined High Point University in June 2022. Taylor received her Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Taylor previously served as a Special Education high school teacher for six years and coached softball as well. What Taylor enjoys most about her work with students is seeing them grow and overcome academic challenges while in pursuit of their goals. Taylor has a passion to help students who learn differently achieve success both inside and outside the classroom. Taylor enjoys spending quality time with her husband and her English Bulldog, she loves the beach, and she is an avid cook at home.
Lindsey Greear
Senior Learning Excellence Specialist
424 Smith Library | 336-841-9645
Lindsey Greear comes to Learning Excellence with over a decade of experience in Guilford County Schools as an educator, mentor, advisor, and teacher leader. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in History from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Arts in Teaching from North Carolina State University. During her time with Guilford County Schools, Lindsey worked with all levels of student learners, served as a member and chairperson for the School Based Leadership Team, mentored student and beginning teachers as well as organized and advised various student organizations, among other roles. Lindsey also helped draft the Instructional Framework for teaching and learning in Guilford County and spent many years in curriculum development for Social Studies education. Lindsey’s favorite part of being a high school teacher was advocating for students, being a safe space and building relationships to encourage student growth. Lindsey believes fully that all students can learn, they just do it in their own way and in their own time. She is looking forward to applying her experiences into her role as a Learning Excellence Specialist to help High Point University students grow into amazing, strong, successful, and independent adults. Outside of work, Lindsey likes to spend her time hanging out with her family, listening to music with her husband, and chasing around her children and their very wild dog.
Kaitlyn Hurt
Assistant Director of Learning Excellence
446 Smith Library | 336-841-9436
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
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.
Christine-Evette Ngeve
Learning Excellence Specialist
428 Smith Library | 336-841-9676
Christine received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Social Work from Shaw University and a master’s degree in Social Work from North Carolina State University. Christine was a three-sport student-athlete as an undergraduate student. During this experience, Christine learned the value of teamwork, time management, and academic excellence. Prior to joining HPU, Christine served as an Academic Mentor and Learning Assistant in the Office of Academic Support for Student-Athletes at North Carolina State University. She provided academic skill development in this role and supported student-athletes who had learning differences. Christine has also served as a Student Assistance Program Counselor/School Social Worker in the Wake County School System. In her free time, Christine enjoys being a mom to her son, working out, painting, and exploring the Triad area. She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Madison Pruis
Learning Excellence Specialist
426 Smith Library | 336-841-4615
Madison Pollard joined High Point University in June 2022. Madison received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois – Chicago and Master of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in student-athlete development from Michigan State University. During her time as an undergraduate student, Madison was a student-athlete for the women’s soccer team. Madison previously served as an Assistant Academic Coordinator in the Academic Support Program for Student-Athletes at North Carolina State University. In this role, Madison provided academic coaching support and mentorship to student-athletes who have learning differences. Madison has a passion to help students develop academic skills required for success in the classroom and she enjoys watching her students persist towards their goals. Madison loves the outdoors, cooking new recipes, and traveling across the world.
Sarah Schoultz
Senior Learning Excellence Specialist
432 Smith Library | 336-841-9610
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.
Tonilena Soranno, M.A.
Learning Excellence Specialist
432 Smith Library | 336-841-9850
Tonilena Soranno received a Master’s in Philosophy with specialization in Human Sciences from the University of Bari “Aldo Moro’, Italy. Before starting her collaboration with High Point University, she taught in a private local preschool where she followed her passion for teaching young children putting at good use her strong background in teaching and psychology. She started at High Point University in 2009 as instructor of Italian where she played a significant role in developing the program, in creating the Conversation course for the Italian minor, in starting the Italian club and in fostering the hands-on learning experience for her students in collaboration with the local community. In 2016 she joined the Learning Excellence program. Tonilena is passionate about helping students be successful during their academic experience at HPU. She keeps a positive and always helping demeanor hoping to have a positive influence on her students while they master their life skills throughout the innumerable opportunities, they encounter in their everyday interactions at HPU.
She is an active member of the HPU’s chapter of Phi Beta Delta Honor Society for International Scholars Zeta Beta Chapter of Phi Beta Delta, and she loves to make international students feel at home at HPU. Tonilena loves spending time with her family, listening to music, cooking, and dancing. She spends her summers traveling and visiting her extended family in Italy.
Shannon Thomae
Senior Learning Excellence Specialist
408 Smith Library | 336-841-9328
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.
Ashley Walker
Learning Excellence Specialist
446 Smith Library | 336-841-9771
Ashley received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hanover College and a Master’s in Science with a concentration in Student Affairs/ High Education Administration from the Nova Southeastern University. Ashley joins Learning Excellence with 8 years of experience working in education. Before coming to High Point, Ashley worked in residence life and housing at Wake Forest University and Rollins College. She also has prior experience teaching high school English and coaching high school athletics. During her time as an undergraduate student, Ashley was a student- athlete on the women’s cross country and track & field teams. As a learning excellence Specialist, Ashley enjoys helping students develop skills unique to them for success inside and outside of the classroom. In her free time, Ashley enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, and spending time with her husband, daughter and 2 dogs.
This Amendment No. 1 amends the Learning Excellence Program Agreement between the High Point University Learning Excellence Program and Students enrolled in this program. It is effective for the Fall Semester 2021 and all future semesters.
This Amendment impacts the “Payment Information” page of the Agreement as related to the “Proration Policy” pertaining to students who withdraw from the University or are granted a Leave of Absence and the amount of refund that is granted in these situations. Specific changes are as follows:
Original Policy
Official Date of University Withdrawal or LOA Refund Percentage
Before classes begin 100% (minus deposit)
First week of classes 87.5%
Second week of classes 75.0%
Third week of classes 62.5%
Fourth week of classes 50.0%
Fifth week of classes 37.5%
Sixth week of classes 25.0%
Seventh week of classes 12.5%
After seventh week of classes 0%
Revised Policy
Official Date of University Withdrawal or LOA Refund Percentage
Before classes begin 100% (minus deposit)
First week of classes 75.0%
Second week of classes 50.0%
Third week of classes 25.0%
Fourth week of classes 0%
All other provisions of the Learning Excellence Program Agreement remain in full force and effect.
Foundations for Academic Success
The Foundations for Academic Success course (ADV-1101) is a comprehensive academic and life skills course. The course is designed to support the overall development and success of the student through the application of techniques, skills, practices and ideas to the academic, personal, social and career aspects of a student’s life. Through academic support and the acquisition of skills and knowledge in learning styles and principles, critical reading, text marking, note taking, memory and exam strategies, the student is able to improve their academic success as well as learn to cross-use such skills in their everyday life. ADV-1101 presents the academic and life skills every entering freshman needs to start college and to be a successful student.
ADV-1101 in Summer Advantage: ADV-1101 is best accomplished with the most immediate effect by completing the course during the Summer Advantage program. By taking ADV-1101 in Summer Advantage, the freshman student is most prepared to “hit the ground learning” in the fall semester. Students overwhelmingly note that Summer Advantage was the very best thing they could have done upon entering college.
The ADV-1101 course further enhances the development of written/oral communication skills, academic/life planning, student lifestyle issues management and life-long learning. Equally important are acquiring life skills in time management, motivation, perception/attitudes, goal setting, career analysis and stress management that enhance the student’s transition to college life and their transition back into the world of work upon graduation.
The ADV-1101 course is a text/e-learning course that includes self-assessments, writing activities and experiential exercises that support the learning process. A significant e-learning component support via the BlackBoard learning system on the web is used. The course is available fall and spring semesters as well as in the Summer Advantage program.
For more information, please contact Ms. Britt Carl, Director of Learning Excellence, at bcarl@highpoint.edu and 336-841-9490.