Many TCC students juggle commitments beyond coursework, from jobs to family responsibilities, all while navigating personal and financial challenges. For some, the path to completion can feel overwhelming.
That’s why in Fall 2016, TCC launched the Academic Success Coaching program. Earlier this year, the program earned national recognition, receiving the Program of Promise Award from the National Organization for Student Success at its 50th Annual Conference in New York City. The honor highlights innovative initiatives that advance student achievement and completion.
With six coaches who serve approximately 2,100 students annually, the program’s goal is to help students with academic success, life balance, and leadership development.
“Our coaches work one-on-one with students to strengthen time management, study strategies, and goal setting,” says Dewayne Dickens, Ph.D., Senior Director of the Center for Community & Learning, who oversees the Academic Success Coaches. “They also help students address everyday challenges that may often derail their college progress.”
A Bumpy Start
In Fall 2021, CJ Thomas started TCC after graduating from an online high school and says he struggled.
“I didn’t know how to manage my time. I didn’t know how to keep up with my classwork in a consistent way,” says Thomas. “I wasn’t checking my email. I wasn’t checking my grades. I felt overwhelmed.”
He passed only one class in his first semester and continued to struggle academically into his second semester. He says he felt isolated and considered dropping out. Then he learned about the Academic Success Coaching program while applying for a work study position.
Although he began meeting with coaches, he admits he didn’t initially communicate how much help he needed. As struggles continued, Dickens reached out to Thomas with encouragement and support, helping him return the next semester.
Meeting consistently with an Academic Success Coach became a turning point, says Thomas.
“He helped me create a detailed, weekly schedule to help visualize my time, stay on top of assignments, track tests and quizzes, and build better study habits. This accountability and structured planning improved my academic performance.”
Another Setback
In Fall 2023, Thomas’ 15-year-old brother was diagnosed with cancer. He and his family traveled between Tulsa and Houston every two weeks so his brother could receive treatment. This took a major emotional and academic toll on Thomas who withdrew from several classes throughout 2023 and 2024.
“There were times I thought about dropping out, but the success coaches kept encouraging me,” says Thomas. They helped him adjust his schedule, plan around travel, and stay connected to his goals. His brother completed treatment and is now in remission.
“My grades haven’t been perfect, but they’re definitely much better,” says Thomas, who will graduate from TCC in December 2026 with a Mechanical Engineering degree. “I went from feeling like dropping out to actually being able to move forward.”
Now as an Academic Success Coach Work Study student, Thomas encourages others to take advantage of the program.
“They give you strategies, accountability, and encouragement…everything you need to be successful. You don’t have to do college alone.”
“Being recognized by NOSS affirms the intentional work our team does every day,” says Dickens. “When students receive personalized support, success becomes not just possible but expected.”
Glynis Mullins, President of the National Organization of Student Success, presents the Program of Promise Award during the 50th Annual Conference in New York City. Accepting on behalf of TCC are Douglas Allen, Student Resource Coach, and Dr. Dewayne Dickens, Director of The Center for Community and Learning.