Sparking Success: Building Students A Data-Driven Tool to Illuminate Their Journey

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 | 12:00PM–12:45PM ET
Session Type: Breakout Session
Delivery Format: Presentation/Panel Session
Discover how the University of California, Irvine (UCI) is redefining student support with Spark, an innovative tool that pairs the power of comprehensive student data with students’ self-defined goals to provide personalized resource recommendations and academic insights. This session will explore the development, implementation, and early impacts of Spark, showcasing how it addresses the diverse needs of UCI's student population, including first-generation and underrepresented minority students. We'll delve into the challenges faced, from data integration to privacy concerns, and share strategies for overcoming them through user-centered design, stakeholder engagement, and careful rollout. Learn how Spark combines institutional data with Canvas LMS analytics, leveraging the Unizin Data Platform, to guide students toward evidence-based study practices and relevant campus resources, fostering academic success and holistic wellness. Attendees will gain insights into creating data-driven, personalized student support systems that can be adapted to their own institutions, potentially transforming student success initiatives across higher education. Join us to explore the future of tailored student support and discover how technology can bridge the gap between diverse student needs and institutional resources.            
 

Presenters

  • Jeremy Thacker

    Assistant Director, Educational & Student Success Technologies, University of California, Irvine

  • Ray Vadnais

    User Experience Architect, University of California, Irvine

Resources & Downloads

  • Presentation slides

    Updated on 11/11/2025