Academic support for SMU's varsity athletes is coordinated through the Altshuler Learning Enhancement Center, which opened its doors to the student population in 1989 and has become one of the University's most widely-used student services.

In August 2000, the A-LEC staff and tutors moved into their new home on the second floor of the Paul B. Loyd, Jr. All-Sports Center. The A-LEC's move was made possible by significant gifts from longtime SMU supporters Ken and Ruth Altshuler, Jack and Laura Blanton and Joseph D. Jamail. Their generosity realized the vision first articulated in President R. Gerald Turner's "Strategic Plan for Southern Methodist University: 1996-2000." The new A-LEC contains the Blanton Academic Development Complex, including three state-of-the-art, fully-networked computer labs; six private rooms for both individual and small group study; an extensive library of audio, video and digital resources; and a large lounge area.

The A-LEC's content-specific services include tutoring, study groups, review sessions and the Writing Center, which is operated by faculty from SMU's English Department. At the Writing Center, students receive help with the process of drafting and revising a specific project, as well as assistance with grammar, organization and style.

The A-LEC offers free tutoring for undergraduates enrolled in targeted courses, including almost all first and second-year courses. The A-LEC employs nearly 60 tutors, who provide an exceptionally strong support for SMU's undergraduate curriculum. The A-LEC's tutoring program has won enthusiastic support from SMU faculty, who encourage students to use the service, and work with A-LEC staff to recruit outstanding tutors. Almost all of the A-LEC tutors are SMU juniors and seniors who have done exceptionally well in a wide range of SMU courses. The A-LEC staff is especially proud of the many student-athletes who have served as A-LEC tutors. Recent changes in NCAA policy will make it possible for even more student-athletes to work at the A-LEC and serve as academic role models for the entire student body.

For more on the Altshuler Learning Enhancement Center click here.