New ‘Math Hub’ provides space for connection, collaboration

The Wildcat Math Hub is a new destination on campus where students can collaborate, build confidence and strengthen their skills.

Since opening on Jan. 22, the hub has quickly become a lively, student centered environment where learners come together to study, ask questions, build conceptual understanding and work through challenging problems with support close at hand.

On the first floor of the Klump Academic Center, the hub transforms the former Wrapture dining area into a bright, flexible workspace designed for active learning. Wall to wall whiteboards, comfortable seating and dedicated zones for both group and individual work make the space an inviting extension of the hands on, engaging approach used in classrooms across campus.

Developed through a partnership between the School of Business, Arts & Sciences and Tutoring Services offered through the Michael J. Hudock Sr. Center for Academic Excellence, the Math Hub was made possible by the college’s Title III Strengthening Institutions Program grant.

“We recognized a need to create spaces where students can practice skills in small groups outside of the classroom,” said Kathleen V. McNaul, director of student success.

The Math Hub brings faculty, professional facilitators and trained student facilitators together in one supportive environment where students can prepare for exams, review concepts or collaborate with peers, with help always within reach.

According to Ed G. Owens, associate professor of mathematics and math coordinator for the Title III grant, the hub serves as a natural extension of the successful instructional methods happening in the classroom.

“We see it as an extension of the lab and whiteboard instruction methods we’re using under the grant,” Owens said. “Students work together in small groups, share ideas and use the whiteboards to solve problems collaboratively. We wanted to create a space where that same energy continues after they leave the classroom – the Math Hub gives them that space.”

Owens noted that the presence of on site facilitators – faculty, professional tutors and trained students – strengthens this model.

“Facilitators act more like coaches,” he explained. “They guide students toward discovering solutions on their own, helping them build confidence and persistence in the process.”

He emphasized that the hub complements the range of support available to students across campus.

“The goal is to provide each student with what works best for them,” Owens said. “Some may need one on one support through Tutoring Services, while others benefit from the collaborative small group environment of the hub.”

The positive response from students reinforces the impact of the space.

“We’re thrilled to see students walk in, grab a marker and start solving problems together,” Owens added. “It shows that when we design learning spaces intentionally, students respond.”

At its core, the Wildcat Math Hub is built on the belief that students thrive when they feel engaged, supported and part of a community.

Learn more and view a schedule for small group sessions on the college's Title III webpage.