MOUNT OLIVE – Two University of Mount Olive students are making a difference in the lives of local elementary students through their work at the University’s Reading Clinic.

Noah Williams, a senior elementary education major from Apex, and Alexis Ramirez, a junior elementary and special education double major from Mount Olive, are helping young learners improve their reading skills.

At the same time, they are gaining hands-on experience that will benefit them in their future teaching careers.

The Clinic, a partnership between UMO and North Duplin Elementary, was established through a grant from Anonymous Trust to provide literacy intervention to K-5 students by helping them achieve reading proficiency.

Williams and Ramirez, who work for the Division of Education as work-study students, assist in the Clinic’s daily operations, which include helping struggling readers and training University tutors.

Co-Director of the Clinic Dr. Ashley Johnson said, “Noah and Alexis frequently stay beyond their scheduled hours to assist tutors, provide additional guidance, and support the clinic’s leadership team with essential tasks. Their willingness to go the extra mile demonstrates their passion for education and dedication to their roles.”

Dr. Amanda Bullard-Maxwell, Assistant Dean for Education, also emphasized the significance of their contributions. She said, “Noah and Alexis have made a meaningful difference at the UMO Reading Clinic. As male educators, they bring a different perspective that helps all students, especially the young male students who attend the Clinic. ”

In recognition of their hard work and expertise, Williams and Ramirez will join their professors at the North Carolina Reading Conference in March at the Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem.

Their presentation will highlight the establishment of one-on-one tutoring in the Clinic.

“This opportunity highlights their impact and contributions to literacy education at both the University and community levels,” Johnson said.