URI’s Academic Enhancement Center Welcomes Students with New Improvements
KINGSTON, R.I. – Sept. 18, 2026 – The University of Rhode Island (URI) is kicking off the school year with exciting updates at its Academic Enhancement Center (AEC), part of the Fannon Institute for Student Success.
Supporting Students in Their Academic Journey
With the start of a new semester, many students face the challenge of balancing homework, activities, and work. The AEC is here to help with services such as academic coaching, writing assistance, and tutoring. Jennifer Burgess, the director of the AEC, emphasizes that the center serves as a supplemental resource alongside faculty support.
Open House and Ribbon Cutting
On Thursday, Sept. 24 at 10 a.m., URI will host an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly remodeled drop-in space in the Robert L. Carothers Library and Learning Commons, Room LL4. The event will feature remarks from Burgess and Fannon Institute for Student Success Executive Director Kimberly Stack, as well as opportunities for students to interact with tutors and explore the upgraded facility.
Enhancements for a Better Experience
Recent improvements include wall-mounted TV screens and a state-of-the-art speaker system to enhance learning experiences. The center has also introduced advanced technology, such as virtual reality dissection software, to assist in subjects like anatomy for nursing students.
With over 15,000 student visits last year, the upgrades aim to improve the overall student experience while supporting the professional development of over 175 tutors employed by the center.
Invitation to the Community
Burgess invites the URI community to attend the open house and experience firsthand how critical investments enhance student success.
The AEC’s drop-in space is available Monday through Thursday from 12 to 7 p.m. Students can also schedule appointments for tutoring via AEC Scheduling.
