NU junior Ashley Groll receives NYCLSA's Promising Student Award

Ashley Groll, a junior elementary education major at Niagara University, is the 2017 recipient of the New York College Learning Skill Association's Promising Student Award.

The Niagara Falls resident, who maintains a 3.56 grade-point average, said she hopes to teach in an inner-city school after graduation to "help children who have the odds stacked against them."

Groll credits a developmental math course that she took during her freshman year at Niagara with helping her develop the learning and study skills needed to succeed in college, especially starting assignments early and allotting adequate time for review.

In 2015, Groll's family lived through a house fire and their house was condemned. After losing all her personal belongings, Groll lived with her family in a hotel for five months.

Groll is a full-time student and works two jobs to cover the cost of her education. Still, she remains very involved on campus. An active member of the NU Lions Club, she is quick to volunteer for tasks; next year, she will serve as the club's vice president.

The New York College Learning Skill Association, launched in 1979, is committed to advancing standards for teaching and learning skills professionals serving underprepared college students.

To learn more about Niagara University's education programs, visit www.niagara.edu/education.