New virtual hub strengthens connection, peer-to-peer support, and student success through new partnership with InScribe
Indiana State University’s online students now have a digital community to share information and find resources for their academic success, thanks for a new partnership with InScribe.
Recently, Indiana State University launched Sycamore Grove, a new digital community designed to foster connection, engagement, and peer-to-peer support for the University’s growing population of online learners. Powered by InScribe’s digital community platform, Sycamore Grove provides a centralized virtual space where students can connect with peers, share experiences, ask questions, and access guidance throughout their academic journey.
With nearly 2,000 fully online students and continued enrollment growth, Indiana State is scaling student support to ensure online learners feel connected and supported beyond their courses. Sycamore Grove functions as a virtual student lounge that promotes belonging while supporting academic momentum, persistence, and degree completion.
“Sycamore Grove reflects our commitment to creating a connected experience for online students,” said Sam Nikolai, Associate Provost for Online Education at Indiana State University. “As our online programs expand, it is essential that students have meaningful opportunities to engage with peers and access support. This community allows us to scale those connections in ways that contribute directly to student success and retention.”
Sycamore Grove complements Indiana State’s learning management system, Canvas, by providing a space intentionally designed for community-building and holistic student support. Students can build relationships with classmates, engage with faculty and staff, exchange resources, and stay informed about virtual events and opportunities.
The digital community is powered by InScribe, a provider of digital communities for higher education that helps institutions scale student success through peer-to-peer and student-to-expert collaboration.
“InScribe was built to help institutions create scalable communities that strengthen belonging and improve outcomes,” said Katy Kappler, co-founder and CEO of InScribe. “Indiana State University’s launch of Sycamore Grove shows how digital communities can support retention and student success as online programs grow.”