Southlake, Texas — The King’s University (TKU) proudly announces the official launch of its The College Reading & Learning Association (CRLA) approved Student Success Peer Specialist Certification Program (PSC)—a comprehensive, multi-level initiative designed to equip students to serve as trained peer educators and academic coaches. CRLA has allowed The King’s Student Success Center authority to recognize peer specialists completing the CRLA-approved program requirements. The program offers CRLA approved peer educator training incorporated in the values of service, excellence, and Spirit-empowered leadership. The program will continue to foster a campus-wide culture of peer-to-peer support, while significantly enhancing student engagement, academic performance, and retention.
This new program reflects TKU’s continued commitment to holistic student development and strategic innovation in academic services. Grounded in nationally recognized College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) training standards, the Peer Specialist Program not only elevates the quality of academic support provided on campus but also provides a meaningful leadership pipeline for future mentors, educators, and ministry professionals.
Raising the Standard for Peer Support in Higher Education
The PSC Program is structured around three progressive certification levels (Level I, II, and III), each designed to provide student participants with essential skills in academic coaching, communication, leadership, and ethical mentorship. Through a combination of instructor led training, peer-to-peer practical experience, and guided mentorship, students will be empowered to coach their peers in academic improvement emphasizing time management, study skills strategies, and more—all while modeling integrity, empathy, and professionalism.
“Peer mentorship is one of the most powerful tools we can offer our students,” said Dr. Irini Fambro, President of The King’s University. “It reflects the Biblical value of discipleship—students walking alongside other students to encourage, equip, and empower one another in both academics and calling. This program not only strengthens our student body but also aligns with our mission to prepare Christ-like, Spirit-empowered leaders for the global Church.”
Program Highlights and Structure
Eligibility:
To qualify, students must have completed at least 60 semester hours of coursework, demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and a heart for service, and maintain a cumulative GPA in good academic standing.
Training:
Each level includes a minimum of 10 hours of CRLA-recommended training topics, 5 hours of synchronous interactive instruction (TIS model), and 25 hours of direct coaching. Topics include administrative best practices, active listening, learning theories, time management, FERPA compliance, and Title IX awareness—among others.
Certification:
Students must demonstrate proficiency in coaching strategies, ethics, and professionalism through a combination of training modules, live coaching sessions, and a required practicum or internship. Certification are earned at each level, with time and responsibilities resetting to meet the distinct expectations of advanced tiers.
A Win for Students, Interns, and the Institution
The long-term impact of the PSC Program is multi-dimensional:
- For Students Receiving Support:
- Gain access to high-quality, relatable academic coaching from fellow students.
- Receive tailored help in goal setting, academic planning, and resource navigation.
- Experience a more connected and encouraging university environment.
- For Peer Coaches (Interns/Mentors):
- Develop practical leadership, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Earn CRLA IPTPC certification recognized across academic institutions nationwide.
- Participate in real-world, supervised coaching scenarios that prepare them for future roles in education, counseling, pastoral care, and more.
- For The University:
- Improve academic performance, retention, and persistence rates among the student body.
- Establish a scalable model for student success that can grow across departments.
- Cultivate a stronger sense of community, ownership, and spiritual growth on campus.
“The program acts as both a ministry training tool and a professional development opportunity,” noted Nelli Lee, The King’s Director of Student Success. “It gives our students a meaningful way to train for their calling while actively contributing to the health and vitality of the TKU community.”
Ongoing Development and Ethical Commitment
TKU’s Peer Coaches are not just tutors—they are transformational leaders in training. To maintain high standards of integrity and impact, the PSC includes a robust Code of Ethics. Peer educators must model professionalism, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity while maintaining a commitment to growth, humility, and service.
Additionally, participants have access to ongoing professional development, including regular training sessions, peer networking opportunities, and one-on-one mentorship with faculty advisors.
Program evaluations will be conducted regularly to assess the effectiveness of coaching relationships, gather feedback, and ensure alignment with TKU’s academic and spiritual goals.
A Model of Spirit-Empowered Leadership in Action
The Student Success Peer Specialist Certification Program is more than a new offering—it is a tangible embodiment of TKU’s mission: to partner with God in developing Christ-like leaders.
By inviting students to serve their peers through wisdom, empathy, and accountability, this program models the servant-leadership of Christ while addressing real academic needs. It fosters a culture where students are empowered not only to succeed, but to lead.
“Achieving this certification serves as an embodiment of our ongoing commitment to equip leaders to serve with both competency and compassion,” said Eric Scott, Executive Director of Student Development. “At The King’s, we believe education not only transforms minds but hearts as well. This certification empowers our students to provide critical support in both ministerial and professional settings. We are grateful to Director Nellie Lee and our entire Student Success Center team for leading this initiative. I cannot wait to see the fruit that grows from this endeavor as students of The King’s University continue our legacy of training Spirit-empowered leaders who bring hope and healing to our world.”
Applications Now Open For the Fall 2025 Semester.
TKU students interested in becoming Peer Coaches should speak with their academic advisor or the Chair or Director for their degree program.
Interested in applying to The King’s? Visit tku.edu/apply today.
Looking Ahead
The Peer Specialist Certification Program signals a new chapter of academic excellence and student empowerment at The King’s University. With a foundation rooted in best-in-class training standards, the program is poised to become a cornerstone of student success initiatives at TKU—and a model for other institutions seeking to do the same.
As peer educators begin to rise within the university community, TKU affirms its belief in the transformational power of students helping students—serving as both mentors and ministers, coaches and Christ-followers.
For more information or to apply, please contact the Department of Student Success at studentsuccess@tku.edu or visit www.tku.edu/apply.