The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has unveiled a new staff recognition program that will honor the work of those who guide students through the academic process. 

In recognition of excellent academic advising, a UA Little Rock Trojan Outstanding Advising Award will be presented to a deserving advisor during the spring semester 2019. The deserving recipient will receive a $1,000 cash award.

Dr. Daryl Rice, associate vice chancellor for academic affairs, said the new award recognizes the importance and expanding role academic advisors have in serving UA Little Rock’s students and helping them be successful in a changing college environment.

“The vital importance of good academic advising to student success has been recognized across the country,” Rice said. “Advising used to be viewed as merely informing students of the courses to register for in order to stay on track to graduation. It still includes that, but the increasing professionalization of advising has expanded the role, which now includes help with career exploration to life coaching and much in between. It’s great that UA Little Rock will recognize excellence in professional advising alongside outstanding teaching, research, and service among faculty.”

Professional academic advisors who have been employed by UA Little Rock for at least one year and hold a position below the rank of assistant dean are eligible for the award. A five-member selection committee comprised of one staff member, student, alumnus, faculty member, and administrator will choose the winner, who will be announced at the Staff Achievement Awards ceremony on Friday, April 26.

Nominees will be evaluated on qualities and practices that include, but are not limited to: strong interpersonal skills; efforts to create a caring, helpful, and positive relationship with advisees; effective monitoring of student progress toward academic and career goals; supportive of the needs of a diverse student population; and knowledge of institutional policies and procedures, campus resources, and appropriate referral activities.

UA Little Rock students, alumni, and employees can show their favorite advisors some love by filling out a nomination by 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 14. To make a nomination, visit the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost website and click on the “Nominate an Outstanding Advisor” section. Once nominated, the nominee will be notified and must submit an application packet by 5 p.m. Monday, March 4, to be considered for the award.

For more information, email Suzanne McAlister at swmcalister@ualr.edu.