Who We Are

Founded in 2021, Tierney Education began with a simple idea: students don’t fail because they lack ability — they struggle because the path to success often feels unclear. What started as James Tierney’s personal effort to help college students find structure and confidence has grown into a full team of academic coaches and tutors.

Today, we serve students across Penn State and beyond, offering personalized academic coaching and tutoring that emphasizes real understanding, effective habits, and long-term growth. We know learning is hard, and we believe that’s what makes it meaningful.

Our Mission

Rooted in evidence-based practices, Tierney Education empowers students to take control of their learning through personalized coaching and tutoring that build confidence, accountability, and long-term academic habits.

Our Vision

To make high-quality academic coaching and tutoring a cornerstone of the educational experience, where learning is understood as growth, not just grades.

Our Long-Term Goals

• Expand Access: Partner with schools and universities to make coaching and tutoring accessible to every student who needs it.

• Promote Lifelong Learning: Equip students with executive functioning, organization, and study strategies that last well beyond graduation.

• Build a Community of Educators: Develop and mentor peer, professional, and executive tutors who embody empathy, excellence, and curiosity.

• Lead the Conversation: Share insights and research that shape how educators, parents, and institutions think about meaningful learning.

Our Promise

At Tierney Education, we don’t believe in shortcuts to success. Every session, conversation, and resource is designed to help students learn deeply, grow confidently, and develop habits that will serve them for life.