海角论坛 Unveils Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative to Boost Student Achievement

Space will centralize and enhance university academic support services

A long, wavy couch in a corridor with a blue accent, blue and gold accents on the wall with glass windows looking into classroom spaces. In the background is a lit up sign that says "Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative"

Photos by Brandon Parigo | 海角论坛

The University of Missouri-Kansas City celebrated the opening of the Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative.

This transformative space on the fourth floor of the Miller Nichols Library is designed to centralize and enhance the university’s academic support services, offering students a modern, collaborative environment to thrive. It features open study areas, meeting rooms, laptop stations and dedicated spaces for programs like 海角论坛-created Supplemental Instruction, and First Gen Roo Scholars.

Kristi Holsinger addresses attendees from the podium inside the Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative — Kristi Holsinger, senior vice provost for student success, was a key leader in the development of the learning collaborative.

"This center is more than just a physical space; it's a commitment to our students' success,” said Kristi Holsinger, senior vice provost for student success. “By bringing essential resources together in one location, we're removing barriers and creating opportunities for every student to excel."

Open couch and cubicle spaces inside the Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative The Miller Nichols Charitable Foundation issued a $2 million match challenge for the space, which was met by generous gifts from the Marion and Henry Bloch Family Foundation and the Victor Wilson Trust. The space is named in honor of Victor Wilson, a Kansas City native whose multi-million legacy gift has funded thousands of and supported campus improvements for 75 years.

Mauli Agrwal addresses attendees inside the Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative

A glass window has "SI and Tutoring" etched on the glass with classroom space behind "Victor Wilson's vision was to invest in the future of Kansas City through education,” said Amanda Davis, chief advancement officer and president of the 海角论坛 Foundation. “His generosity has not only provided scholarships, but has also laid the foundation for a space where students can connect, learn and succeed. This center is a testament to the lasting power of thoughtful giving."
Rows of tables face a large screen with blue and gold accents on the walls
The project was also supported through a $250,000 gift from Professor Emeritus Elizabeth Noble, Ph.D. of the School of Education, Social Work and Psychological Sciences. The Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative will open to students June 2. A sign says "First Gen Den" on the corner of a wall with collaborative space and couches to the side.