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, 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 Associate Director of the APN and DPN programs. She 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 serves as the Associate Director for the Orientation Peer Navigator Program. She began her journey in peer-to-peer support at UC Davis, where she also earned her undergraduate degree. After relocating to Twentynine Palms, California, she pursued her master’s degree in Organizational Leadership.
Sofia Negron-Frattale
Project Coordinator
Sofia Negron earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Central Florida in 2021. Following her graduation, she spent nearly four years with the institution’s College of Graduate Studies, where she developed comprehensive experience in higher education. Her experience ultimately reinforced her passion for providing meaningful support for students, leading her to join the Peer Navigator Network team at National University.
Dr. J.B. Robinson
Dean of Students
Dr. Robinson is the co-Principal Investigator of the PNN grant. 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
Dean, School of Arts, Letters, and Sciences
Dr. Polen-Petit is the co-Principal Investigator of the PNN grant. 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.
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.
Doctoral Peer Navigator
As a Doctoral 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 Doctoral Peer Navigator positions are available, a link to the application will be posted below.
Orientation Peer Navigator
As an Orientation Peer Navigator, you will support new students as they transition into their academic journey at NU. Your role includes providing peer mentorship through 1:1 appointments and drop in hours in our Peer Support Studio, helping students navigate essential NU systems, and connecting them with key campus resources. You’ll play a meaningful role in helping students feel confident, supported, and prepared as they begin their program.
Check periodically for opening(s). Once Orientation Peer Navigator positions become 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.