UMKC opens Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative to centralize student support

 UMKC has unveiled the Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative on the fourth floor of the Miller Nichols Library, a transformative space designed to centralize and enhance academic support services for students.

 With numerous organizations moving there from Atterbury, such as Supplemental Instruction, Tutoring, the Writing Studio, PALs Program, UG Research, MoCA, First Gen Roos, the Summer Bridge Program, KC Scholars and Bloch Scholars, the layout is packed for student engagement.

  The relocation will also promote collaboration between departments and create new opportunities for mentorship, peer support and student growth.

  “This space was designed specifically and intentionally for students – from the layout, lighting, and design elements, to the technology and collaboration areas,” said Senior Vice Provost for Student Success Kristi Holsinger. “The purpose of this space is to support and elevate the student experience.”

  Back in 2020, when the Department of Student Success was founded at UMKC, it was asked to create a space to “physically centralize student support services.  Now in 2025, that concept has become a reality on campus. The initiative reflects the university’s broader strategic goals, including “retention, academic achievement, and student wellbeing.”

  “We spent a great deal of time thinking about long-term success for students,” said Holsinger. “Part of that long-term success is creating spaces where students can create community, find a sense of belonging, solve problems, address barriers to their goals, connect with campus resources, and be encouraged and supported.”

 The space is named in honor of Victor Wilson, a Kansas City native whose generous donation has funded thousands of student scholarships and supported campus improvements for more than 75 years.

  “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 UMKC Foundation. “His generosity has not only provided scholarships, but has also laid the foundation for a space where students can connect, learn and succeed.”

  The amenities on the fourth floor include various different-sized reservable rooms for studying or meetings, multiple break rooms, laptop stations, and furniture for lounging and collaborating. Each of these features was selected with intention and student feedback in mind, ensuring the space remains flexible, welcoming, and purposeful.

  “These various rooms are designed to be hangout spaces for students,” said Holsinger.

  The space will also be used to hold multiple different student-led events, such as “Overcoming Exam Setbacks” hosted by PAL, “Study Buddies & Study Skills” hosted by Tutoring Services and Supplemental Instruction, “Weekly Study Halls” hosted by Academic Support and PAL, and “Lunch with a First Gen Professor” hosted by First Gen Roo.

  “This center is more than just a physical space; it’s a commitment to our students’ success,” said Holsinger.

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