Since fall 2021, University Libraries has collaborated with staff and student tutors in the C.A.T.S. Academics student athlete support program. Peer Information Counselors (PICs) and Librarians from our Student Engagement & Learning department work with C.A.T.S. tutors to assist student athletes to hone their research and writing skills. 

During spring 2023, PICs and librarians completed 13 weeks of office hours, totaling 117 hours of embedded support. The presence of the PICs and librarians at the Ginny L. Clements Academic Center provided 368 student athletes access to the resources and research assistance.    

C.A.T.S. Academics tutors were able to refer students to PICs and librarians to connect them with the resources they need to be successful. In the summer and fall of 2023, the program was expanded to include tours of the library for incoming student athletes and help sessions for specific courses with a research project or focus. The staff from C.A.T.S. Academics have seen an increase in students accessing library technology, and in visiting the library. According to the library staff, [personnel have truly enjoyed the opportunity to get to know the tutors and students in the C.A.T.S. facility and treasure each bit of feedback (“I got an A on my paper!”)] that they have received.   

This program has improved the academic experience for student athletes and is a great example of collaboration across units for student success.

See original story in the Student Success & Retention Innovation December newsletter (12/5/23).