UofL’s REACH learning center earns prestigious award for community impact

The University of Louisville’s Resources for Academic Achievement (REACH) was recently designated as a Learning Center of Excellence for 2024-2026.  

The designation by the International College Learning Center Association (ICLCA) – an organization that promotes the professional standards of excellence for learning centers internationally – makes UofL one of only eight universities in the world to hold the title. UofL is the only ACC school and the only university in Kentucky to house an ICLCA Learning Center of Excellence.  

Investing in students to redefine success both in their academic programs and the workforce beyond, REACH provides interactive tutoring and coaching for numerous academic subjects. The ICLCA recognized it as a program that exceeds expectations in several areas, from resources and learning environment to design framework and staff development. 

“This recognition reflects not only our center’s commitment to supporting undergraduates’ academic pathways but also the commitment from the university to prioritize support services that are vital to improving students’ concept mastery, grades and GPAs, retention rates, and graduation rates” said Geoff Bailey, executive director of REACH. “Our center stands apart from other learning centers by adopting innovative technologies such as virtual reality, forging corporate relationships and sponsorships, and leveraging grant opportunities to scale up our services.” 

REACH not only serves currently enrolled Cardinals, but also recognizes a need in college preparation for high school students within the community. Each summer, REACH hosts the Math Xcelerator program, designed for students about to begin their first year at UofL. This three-week intensive program helps students boost their math skills to college levels before enrolling, using an emporium-style instructional model, through team-building activities, academic workshops, and mentor relationships with faculty. 

“Over 90% of participants successfully finish at least half of their coursework during Xcelerator, and 50% complete the entire course which enables them to move to their next math class in the fall,” Bailey said. “Moreover, we’ve shown that our historically marginalized students, first-generation college students, and low-income students not only thrive and achieve success through Xcelerator, but their first-to-second year retention rates are 20-30% higher than their peers from these backgrounds.” 

REACH’s work has led to many success stories among the participants Bailey has witnessed move through the program. He shared that one of a student had put off his required math course until it was potentially preventing graduation. With REACH’s help, the student began an individualized tutoring plan and worked to address his confidence and mental focus. He graduated, after thinking for years he couldn’t do it.

“He later came back to UofL where he successfully completed his master’s degree in social work, and now he supports disadvantaged youth in the west end of Louisville where he grew up and works to inspire them to achieve their own success,” Bailey said.  

This impact reflects UofL’s commitment to equip the next generation of students by unlocking potential for the whole community to thrive.