UMF peer tutors present innovative approach to support student success at Maine Peer Educators Summit

FARMINGTON, ME (November 3, 2025)—UMF Learning Commons Coordinator Misty Beck and UMF student peer educators recently presented their innovative approach to supporting student success at the first annual Maine Peer Educators Summit held at Bates College.

In their presentation, they highlighted how the Student Learning Commons integrates academic coaches, course-based peer tutors and targeted intervention to reduce academic struggle and strengthen student persistence.

During the academic year, peer tutors reach out to fellow students in need of support with high-impact strategies to support success in challenging courses.

The UMF student leadership model helps students build foundational skills such as project management and self-advocacy, provides academic support across disciplines, and showcases the Alfond-funded “Gateway to Success” program with targeted intervention.

“The power of peer collaboration stems from shared academic experience. Because peer tutors have recently navigated the same challenges, they not only instantly recognize their classmates’ struggles but also possess the practical language and relevant examples—whether for a tough new concept or a complex exam problem—to bridge the gap between confusion and confidence, ensuring their peers succeed academically,” said Beck.

The UMF Learning Commons student tutors schedule appointments with students throughout the academic year. It currently employs 47 peer tutors and is helping 270 students in study sessions and tutoring appointments. Since the 2022-23 academic year the program has grown from helping 98 students achieve measurable success to nearly 450.

More on University of Maine at Farmington

A nationally recognized public liberal arts college known for its commitment to the creative arts, teacher preparation, the health arts and sciences, the environment, business and public service, UMF provides a challenging yet supportive environment to prepare students for both careers and further study. Located in the heart of Maine’s four-season outdoor recreational region, UMF is a welcoming, close-knit academic community that prepares students for enriching professional careers, engaged citizenship and an enduring love of learning.

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EDITOR’S NOTE:
Image: https://farmington.edu/app/uploads/2025/10/RP256-012.webp
Photo Caption: (Left to right) Jay Schwartz, Business & Financial Literacy Team Leader; Misty Beck, Student Learning Commons Coordinator; Tessa Tillman, Gateways for Success Program Leader; Tom Gingras, Academic Allies Program Leader; Christopher Houdeshell, Course-Based Tutor Program Leader; Kenady Marshall, Writing Tutor & Academic Coach, (panel moderator); Giada Jellison Wall, Math Team Leader.
Photo Credit: Submitted Image