Peer Navigator Network
TOGETHER, WE SOAR!
Welcome to the Peer Navigator Network
In 2024, National University was awarded a 4-year, 4-million-dollar Postsecondary Student Success Grant through the Department of Education to create the NU Peer Navigator Network (PNN). The Peer Navigator Network plans to improve postsecondary success for underserved students, including persistence and completion.
The project will support the development of diverse peer-to-peer support, interactive virtual meeting spaces, and credential-rich mentor training programs for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students. In doing so, the institution commits to improving student success outcomes for underserved students, using data to assess and improve the effectiveness of funded activities and sustain data-informed continuous improvement following the grant period.
Mission
To provide a comprehensive peer-to-peer support network that fosters connectivity and supports the whole human.
Values
Interdependence, Facilitating Learning, Experience-Rich, Whole Human.
Who We Are
A comprehensive peer-to-peer support network
Meet the Peer Navigator Network Team
Lorrena Johnson
Project Director
Lorrena Johnson is a first-generation graduate from Muskegon, Michigan. She completed her undergraduate studies at Michigan State University and later went on to earn a master’s in Higher Education Administration from Loyola University in Chicago. She has a decade of experience in college access, college success, college advising, and event planning.
Adriana Vargas
Associate Director
Adriana Vargas is a seasoned higher education professional with a background in admissions, academic counseling, and financial aid. She earned her undergraduate degree from Arizona State University and pursued a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from National University.
Sydney Smith
Associate Director
Sydney Smith began her journey in peer-to-peer support at UC Davis, where she also discovered a passion for servant leadership. After relocating to Twentynine Palms, she joined National University’s military team as a Campus Support Specialist, supporting active-duty service members, veterans, and their families while contributing to campus operations. During her three years in the role, she earned a master’s in Organizational Leadership, reinforcing her dedication to growth and lifelong learning.
Ethan Bishop
Project Coordinator
Ethan Bishop is a born-and-raised San Diegan with a passion for helping students achieve their greatest potential. He has earned a bachelor’s in English and a master’s in English from San Diego State University. In his 15+ years in higher education, he has served in a number of roles including instructor, academic program director, academic operations, and military student advising.
Dr. J.B. Robinson
Peer Navigator
Dr. Robinson now serves as the Dean of Students at National University, supporting teams dedicated to accessibility, wellness. community standards, student engagement, and academic success. He developed National University’s first emergency aid grant for students and has served as Principal Investigator for over $7.3 million dollars in federal and private grants delivering student mental health support, financial literacy, peer-to-peer mentoring, and equity- based programs for Hispanic and first-generation students.
Dr. Polen-Petit
Peer Navigator
Dr. Nicole C. Polen-Petit, Dean of the School of Arts, Letters, and Sciences at National University, oversees a wide range of programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities. A first-generation college graduate, she champions liberal arts, supports faculty collaboration, and has developed programs to boost student success, including a peer support initiative funded by a $4 million Department of Education grant.
Stay on the lookout for scholarship opportunities. New options and deadlines frequently emerge, so keeping an eye on updated listings can help you find the perfect fit for your academic goals. Don t miss out on potential funding return often to explore the latest opportunities!
Peer Navigator Network Dissertation Bootcamp Scholarship
National University (“NU”) is proud to offer the Peer Navigator Network Dissertation Bootcamp Scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded to eligible NU doctoral students and includes a one-time, non-renewable stipend of $1,000 to be used exclusively for travel-related expenses to attend the Dissertation Bootcamp, which will be held in San Diego, California, from October 26 to October 28, 2025. In addition to the stipend, the scholarship will cover the full cost of tuition and fees associated with participation in the Bootcamp, as well as hotel accommodations for the duration of the program. Hotel arrangements will be made at NU’s sole discretion, and recipients must agree to the terms of any lodging provided.
The scholarship will open on September 1, 2025. To be considered for the scholarship, students must submit a completed application no later than September 15, 2025. By applying, students acknowledge and agree to participate in a 1-hour in-person focus group and a 1-hour follow-up interview and survey. Please complete the application here.
Academic Peer Navigator
As an Academic Peer Navigator, you will support students enrolled in general education courses. Your role will involve guiding them through academic challenges, offering study tips, and helping them navigate resources to achieve their full potential. This position is perfect for individuals enthusiastic about peer education and dedicated to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
Check periodically for opening(s). Once the Academic Peer Navigator positions are available, a link to the application will be posted below.
Dissertation Peer Navigator
As a Dissertation Peer Navigator, you’ll provide invaluable support, offer encouragement, and share essential resources to help students navigate the complexities of their research. This position involves one-on-one interactions, small group workshops, and creating a positive and collaborative environment that fosters academic growth. This role is perfect for you if you are interested in peer education and are committed to helping others achieve their scholarly goals. Join us in making a significant impact on the success of future scholars!
Check periodically for opening(s). Once the Academic Peer Navigator positions are available, a link to the application will be posted below.
Connect With Us
Our Peer Navigator team is here to support students every step of the way. For additional information and resources, we invite you to explore the Peer Navigator Network website, a dynamic peer education program designed to enhance support and collaboration.