Academic Success Center Hosts 2025 NC Peer Educator Conference

NC State’s Academic Success Center hosted The 17th Annual North Carolina Peer Educator Conference on April 5. This conference underscored the power of student-led initiatives in shaping vibrant learning environments.

The conference brought together student leaders from across the state to exchange innovative ideas and effective strategies for enhancing academic success and student well-being. This was a unique opportunity for peer educators to not only participate in professional development but also to connect with a community of peers working toward a common goal of promoting independent learning and improving academic performance.

This year’s theme, “Empowering the Whole Student: Think Strategically, Do Effectively,” was inspired by NC State’s motto, “Think and Do”. It emphasized holistic student support and explored how peer educators foster meaningful connections and adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education. While the term “tutor” might be the first role that comes to mind, “peer educator” also includes:

• Academic Peer Mentors who help support the development of general academic success skills
• Writing Consultants who help support students through any stage of the writing process
• SI, PAL or PASS Leaders who facilitate engaging, collaborative learning sessions
• Peer Career Coaches or Mentors who assist their peers with exploring career pathways
• Peer Wellness Coaches who provide education, support and encouragement to develop healthy lifestyle behaviors

With over 100 attendees from 12 institutions across North Carolina and Virginia, the conference was full of energy, innovation and collaboration. The day began with a warm welcome from Allison Markert, 2024-2025 Student Body President, followed by an insightful and inspiring keynote presentation by Kesha Reed, associate vice chancellor and associate dean for the Division of Academic and Student Affairs. 

Throughout the day, four blocks of breakout sessions — facilitated by student presenters in D.H. Hill Jr. Library — delved into topics such as empowering learner confidence, questioning and listening techniques and leveraging technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to improve academic achievement. Additional sessions focused on metacognitive regulation and supporting specific student populations, including first-year students, veterans, students with disabilities and neurodivergent learners.

Attendees also benefited from multiple networking and professional development opportunities, including a five-minute networking session in the morning, a lunchtime networking bingo activity and a handout on how to market peer educator skills on résumés and in interviews.

Participants were also invited to take new professional headshots for LinkedIn and other networking platforms. During the closing remarks, the 2025 conference planning committee recognized all 39 presenters with certificates of presentation, and a well-earned scoop of Howling Cow ice cream.

The 2025 NC Peer Educator Conference was organized by a thoughtful and dedicated planning committee composed of:

• Sarah Stokely, Assistant Director, Academic Success Center (Chair)
• Jessica Braxton, Tutor Coordinator, TRIO Programs
• Emily Resk, Academic Advisor, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
• Gabby Schmidt, Program Associate, Academic Success Center

The conference highlights NC State University’s commitment to fostering a local and regional community of empowered, engaged, and resourceful student leaders. The Academic Success Center looks forward to promoting next year’s event once details are released. Stay tuned!