Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services empowers students to succeed academically

Above: Central State University's College Reading and Learning Association-certified peer tutors provide vital support to their fellow Marauders through the Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services.

The Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services (OASIS) at Central State University is a vital resource for students, offering tutoring, academic workshops, and personalized support to ensure academic success. At the helm of this transformative office is coordinator Terron Dames, who joined Central State in March 2023, bringing a passion for fostering academic growth and a commitment to inclusivity. In a recent conversation, Dames shared insights into his vision for OASIS, the changes he has implemented, and his approach to leadership.  

A vision for personalized student support  

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Dames began his tenure with a clear vision: to create an inclusive, student-centered environment where academic support was not only accessible but personalized. Drawing on his previous experience as a middle school teacher, Dames emphasized the importance of meeting the diverse needs of students, fostering academic success by building strong relationships and understanding their unique challenges.  

"Teaching middle school taught me that personalized support is key," Dames said. "It's about helping students feel seen and heard, which in turn promotes their academic success."  

One of his first steps was to engage directly with students, attending events, observing classrooms, and building relationships to better understand their needs. This approach has helped OASIS design individualized success plans while creating a sense of community that extends beyond academics.  

Comprehensive resources for students  

Dames is committed to making OASIS a resource not just for students who are struggling but for all students, regardless of academic standing. OASIS provides tutoring, workshops, and various resources such as loaner laptops, calculators, and study materials. The office even offers test prep books for exams like the MCAT, LSAT, and GRE, ensuring that students have access to the tools they need to excel.  

"OASIS isn't just for students who need help academically; it's a place where all students can come to enhance their learning experience," Dames explained. 

"We want to make sure every student has access to the resources they need to succeed."  

When asked how he defines leadership, Dames pointed to vision, empathy, and relationship-building as key components of his approach. He believes that strong leadership is about setting a direction and understanding and responding to the needs of students and staff alike.  

"Empathy is at the core of leadership," Dames said. "A great leader builds strong relationships not just with their team but with the students they serve. That connection is what helps us tailor our programs and services to meet their needs."  

Dames’ leadership style emphasizes a collaborative approach, ensuring that both professional staff and peer tutors are well-equipped to support students. Under his direction, the peer tutor selection process has been overhauled to ensure that tutors excel academically and possess the empathy and relational skills needed to connect with their peers.  

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Significant changes and strategic initiatives  

Since his arrival, Dames has implemented several significant changes aimed at improving the quality of academic support services. The new peer tutor selection process includes multiple interviews and a more rigorous screening process, which has resulted in a higher caliber of peer tutors.  

In addition, Dames reinstituted the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) certification for OASIS staff, allowing them to be trained in the latest best practices for tutoring. This certification also enables OASIS tutors to earn their own certification, enhancing the overall quality of tutoring services.  

Another innovation is the introduction of community partnerships, such as with Raising Cane’s and Buffalo Wild Wings, to help raise funds for the office’s operations. These partnerships provide essential resources that Title III funding doesn’t cover, ensuring that OASIS can continue to provide a high level of service to students.  

Measurable success  

Under Dames' leadership, the impact of OASIS is evident in the measurable outcomes of student success. For the Spring 2024 semester, 88.3% of students who received tutoring passed their courses, with 77.8% earning grades of A to C — an improvement over previous years and exceeding the semester’s goal. The increase in foot traffic to OASIS has also been significant, with over 1,000 visits during the spring semester alone. 

"I attribute these gains to the improvements we’ve made in tutor selection, certification, and our overall responsiveness to students' needs," Dames said. "But it's also about creating a space where students feel supported, not just academically but emotionally as well."  

Fostering student growth beyond academics  

Dames is particularly proud of the growth and development he’s seen in his students. Beyond academic support, OASIS encourages peer tutors to pursue career-related opportunities, helping them build resumes and gain valuable experience. Several OASIS tutors have gone on to receive internships, externships, and recognition at national conferences.  

"Seeing my students achieve their academic and professional goals is the most rewarding part of my job," Dames said. 

"It's amazing to see them go from struggling to thriving, and knowing that OASIS played a part in that journey is incredibly fulfilling."

Strengthening collaboration across campus  

Collaboration has been a cornerstone of Dames' leadership. He has worked closely with student organizations, faculty, and staff to ensure that OASIS is integrated into the campus community. Through partnerships with groups like the Student Government Association and initiatives such as tutoring at community events, OASIS has expanded its reach and impact.  

Dames is also focused on enhancing faculty engagement, ensuring that instructors are aware of the resources available to their students and encouraging them to refer students to OASIS for support.  

Ultimately, Dames sees his work as integral to Central State University’s broader mission of student success and retention. By providing students with the academic support they need, OASIS helps ensure that students remain enrolled and on track to graduate. Dames takes pride in his office’s role as a "first line of defense" against academic probation and suspension, working with students to help them turn their academic performance around.  

"I’m incredibly proud of the role OASIS plays in supporting student success at CSU," Dames said. 

"We’re here to help students achieve their academic goals and to make sure they have the resources they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond."  

With plans to expand tutoring services and continued growth in student employment, Dames is excited about the future of OASIS. His leadership has already made a lasting impact, and as the office continues to evolve, so too will its ability to support students in their academic journeys.  

At the heart of Dames' work is a deep commitment to student success — a commitment that is shaping the future of academic support at Central State University.  

OASIS is a program of First- and Second-Year Student Success at Central State University.