Central State University opens new Writing Center to boost student success and literacy

Central State University has opened a new Writing Center designed to provide accessible, faculty-supported writing assistance to students across grade levels, with a focus on building confidence, improving literacy and fostering academic success. 

The Writing Center, located in Wesley Hall, Room 214, officially opened Jan. 20. The center operates on a drop-in basis from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., eliminating the need for appointments and removing barriers that often prevent students from seeking academic support. 

“The goal is proactivity,” said Terron Dames, coordinator for the Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services. “We want students to be prepared, confident and at least a step ahead in their coursework instead of feeling like they’re trying to catch up.” 

From Vision to Reality 

The idea for the Writing Center emerged shortly after Cadmus Innis Jr. joined the university in November 2025 as a reading and writing content specialist. Innis conducted an informal assessment through conversations with English faculty, particularly those teaching English 1101 and 1102, to identify recurring challenges students faced. 

One of the biggest takeaways from those discussions was the need for a centralized space where students could consistently receive writing help. “I’m excited to see the growth, improved literacy, stronger writing skills and increased confidence.” Innis said. “We want students to feel comfortable and to know that we’re here to help.” 

While the concept of a Writing Center had been discussed in the past, Dames said the university now had the capacity to bring the vision to life. Innis was tasked with coordinating faculty meetings and laying the groundwork for the center, working to align the perspectives of administrators, English faculty and academic support staff. 

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Faculty Leadership Drives Success  

Two faculty leaders played a critical role in shaping the center’s structure and launch: Dr. Kenneth Hayes, Writing Program Coordinator, and Dr. Vincent Haddad, Chair of the Department of Humanities. That collaboration led to a multifaceted model that integrates faculty expertise, trained peer tutors and student-centered programming.  

English faculty help train tutors to ensure support is detailed and accurate without overstepping academic boundaries. The center currently has 15 peer tutors, with most sessions conducted one-on-one, though group sessions are also available. 

Dr. Hayes advocated for locating the center in Wesley Hall to maximize student access and visibility. “If students are already in the building for class, help is right down the hall,” Dames said. “That removes the ‘I don’t know where to go’ or ‘it’s too far’ barrier.” 

Dr. Haddad worked closely with academic support staff and English faculty to ensure the Writing Center aligned with departmental goals and academic standards, strengthening collaboration between faculty and tutors. 

Comprehensive Support for All Students 

Students may visit the Writing Center at any stage of the writing process, from developing ideas and organizing drafts to revising structure and correcting grammar. While the center primarily supports English courses, students can also receive help with writing assignments in other disciplines. 

“Writing is writing,” Dames said. “If you’re working on a history paper and need help with your thesis or organization, we can help with that too.” 

“We don’t want students to come in and say, ‘I need help with paper one,’” Dames said. “We encourage them to bring notes, drafts and specific questions so we can really meet them where they are.” 

Beyond tutoring, Dames envisions the Writing Center as a hub for literacy-focused programming, including creative writing initiatives, a book club and even a comic club to encourage alternative forms of expression. 

“Tutoring isn’t just for students who are failing,” Dames said. “It’s for students who want reassurance, stronger organization or a confidence boost.” 

The Writing Center is open to all Central State University students.