The message is clear from the moment you walk through the doors: You don’t have to figure out college alone.

East Tennessee State University held the official grand opening of the Mary V. Jordan Center earlier today, creating a comprehensive support hub that serves as the front door to student success services and personalized support.

Named after a trailblazer whose legacy embodies accessibility and student support, the center fills a crucial gap that too many college students face: knowing where to turn when you need help.

“No matter your background or where you are starting from, the Jordan Center is your partner in success,” said student Skylar Mittelsteadt. “Jordan Center staff listen carefully and connect you with the help you need.”

A concierge for student success

The Jordan Center doesn’t replace academic advisers, tutoring services or other campus resources.  

Instead, it serves as a connector – helping students understand what they need and guiding them to the right place at the right time.

“Students often don’t know which office to visit or what questions to ask,” said Rachael Barnett, director of the center. “We act as that guide, ensuring our existing excellent services work better together and that no student gets lost in the system or falls through the cracks.”

The approach is proactive rather than reactive.  

Students receive personalized one-on-one mentoring with success specialists, help with balancing work and school, stress management support and quick connections to campus resources they might not even know exist.

“They help you build a plan, stay motivated and connect with people who care,” said ETSU student Thomas Bales.

Supporting first-generation students

While the center welcomes all ETSU students, it partners with TRIO Programs to provide specialized programming for first-generation and low-income students. First-generation students – those whose parents didn’t complete a four-year degree – make up approximately 30% of ETSU’s undergraduate population.

First-generation students often lack the roadmap for navigating college that comes from having family members who’ve been through the experience. Understanding financial aid, knowing when to seek help, or connecting with faculty can present invisible barriers.

“First-generation students with limited incomes are navigating territory their families haven’t experienced,” Barnett said. “The Jordan Center levels the playing field by providing the guidance and mentorship that helps these students thrive.”

The center’s first cohort includes approximately 200 full-time, first-year students who will receive targeted programming as they progress through ETSU’s Compass Core curriculum. Services remain available to any ETSU student who walks through the doors.

A critical investment

University leaders see the Jordan Center as essential infrastructure for student success.

“The Mary V. Jordan Center represents a critical investment in student success at ETSU, serving as the ‘front door’ for student support services,” said Dr. Joe Sherlin, senior vice president for Student Life and Enrollment. “With dedicated student success specialists, personalized mentorship and concierge-level programming, the center offers a solid foundation to help our students thrive and realize their full potential at ETSU.”

Dr. Keith Johnson, vice president for Student Success, emphasized the center’s mission: “ETSU created the Jordan Center to help every student stay on track to earning their degree.”

Open doors

The center is located on the second floor of the D.P. Culp Student Center. Walk-ins are welcome.

Call (423) 439-4445 or email jordancenter@etsu.edu. Get all the latest at etsu.edu/students/jordan.