Bishop Campbell visits Dominican Learning Center

COLUMBUS, OH - Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Columbus Frederick Campbell, DD, PhD, learned more of the efforts being made on behalf of adult education during a June 22 tour at The Dominican Learning Center, 1111 Stewart Avenue.

DLC Director Sr. Shawn Fitzpatrick, OP, and Assistant Director Sr. Robin Richard, OP, took the Bishop on a brief tour of the Center, showing him how the DLC functions on a daily basis. The Bishop learned that volunteer tutors provide one-to-one tutoring to assist adults in improving their skills in reading, writing, spelling, speaking, listening, mathematics, and basic computer use. Between 45 and 57 countries are represented at the DLC. Sr. Shawn told him that many of their learners, even those from Columbus, arrive not knowing how to read.

In addition to showing the Bishop tutoring spaces and the Center's computer room, Srs. Shawn and Robin showed the Bishop the visual ways in which the DLC fosters a sense of community, from the photos of present and former tutors to the pictures of learners meeting various accomplishments: Passing a GED test, or a citizenship test, for example. Wall space also is utilized for motivational purposes. The DLC regularly exhibits learners' written work. Good attendance is emphasized with monthly drawings for a $25 grocery store gift certificate.

The Bishop participated in a round table discussion with staff members as well as volunteers at center, including the first Director, Sr. Marie Granger, OP, who opened the DLC in 1994. All shared their connections with the DLC, including Dominican Sisters who regularly provide clerical assistance.

The Dominican Learning Center, a founded ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Peace, provides one-to-one tutoring to help adults to improve their skills in reading, writing, spelling, speaking, listening, mathematics, and basic computer use.