Behind every thriving peer tutoring program is someone who makes it all possible. Someone who believes deeply in student success and puts in the work to bring that vision to life.
That’s why we introduced the Outstanding Knack Advocate Award at this year’s Partner Awards—to recognize the campus leaders who go above and beyond to support, scale, and sustain their Knack programs.
These advocates lead with heart. They champion student voices, create space for peer learning to thrive, and push for increased access to academic support. Their efforts have created real impact across their campuses.
Here are this year’s honorees:
1st Place: Shayne Koplowitz, Central Connecticut State University
Even before her official start date as Assistant Director of the Learning Center, Shayne hit the ground running—and brought Knack with her.
She’s forged new cross-campus connections, integrated Knack into orientation materials, and positioned tutoring as both an academic and professional opportunity.
Noteworthy contributions:
- Partnered with multiple colleges and departments to expand Knack access
- Designed orientation materials, including custom Knack bookmarks
- Regularly tables at career fairs to promote Knack as an employment opportunity
- Invests deeply in tutor development, encouraging CRLA certification and offering additional support to help students achieve it
Shayne brings care and consistency to everything she does. We're proud to celebrate her impact.
2nd Place: Jacquelyn Tasso, University of South Florida
Jacquelyn knows what it takes to run a strong peer tutoring program—because she’s done it, term after term.
She meets with tutors regularly, ensures course coverage is complete, and always puts students first. Her thoughtful leadership keeps the program running smoothly and growing steadily.
Noteworthy contributions:
- Checks in with tutors every term to provide support
- Ensures tutors are available for every supported course
- Acts as a trusted bridge between students, tutors, and the Knack team
Jacquelyn’s commitment shows up in the details—and in the results.
3rd Place: Terence Sullivan, Valdosta State University
Though new to Knack, Terence has been all-in from day one. His leadership helped Valdosta State’s first year with Knack take off with strong student engagement and broad campus support.
He didn’t just implement the program. He championed it.
Noteworthy contributions:
- Continuously evaluates tutoring needs and adjusts tutor capacity accordingly
- Builds faculty and staff buy-in through regular outreach and communication
- Maintains close contact with tutors to ensure quality and consistency
Thanks to Terence’s drive, Valdosta State is already seeing strong momentum and laying the groundwork for sustainable impact.
Why It Matters
These champions prove what’s possible when institutions invest in people and peer connection.
At Knack, we’re proud to work with leaders who go above and beyond to make support accessible, impactful, and student-led.
To our 2025 winners: thank you for your vision, energy, and commitment. You're helping shape a future where every student has the support they need to thrive.
Explore how Knack can partner with your campus at joinknack.com.
