The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has selected Dechantria “Dee Dee” Wallace, a counselor in the College of Education and Health Professions Advising and Support Center, as the 2020 winner of the Outstanding Academic Advisor Award. 

“An advisor must be a good listener and assist the whole student, making referrals and collaborating with other campus resources when necessary,” Wallace said. “In some instances, an advisor is not just a source of information, but a teacher, counselor, and advocate, My goal is to help students discover their passion and purpose.”

The Outstanding Academic Advisor Award recognizes excellence in academic advising and comes with a $1,000 award. It also emphasizes 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.

“I am not surprised by the committee’s selection of Dee Dee,” said Daryl Rice, associate vice chancellor for academic affairs – student success. “The wonderful things I hear about her indirectly have always been confirmed when I have had the opportunity to work with her directly. She’s the real deal when it comes to advising and supporting students across the wide range of needs that our students have.”

Wallace was selected for her years of dedication to UA Little Rock students and her ability to instill students with a sense of confidence and pride.

“Ms. Wallace has a strong knowledge and understanding of campus policies and procedures. She is extremely personable, very calming,  friendly, and has a sincere love of helping both students and sometimes frazzled faculty such as myself,” said Linda Stauffer, professor of interpreter education.

Some of her advisees have described Wallace as an “amazing help” who guided them to a successful academic plan and career path.

“Ms. Wallace was very helpful,” one student said. “She made sure I had my entire degree plan laid out. I honestly don’t think I’ve had a more positive advising experience.”

Faculty members in the College of Education and Health Professions have praised Wallace for her guidance with professors as well as students.

“Her communication with her students and our Health and Human Performance (HHP) Faculty is excellent,” said Bennie Prince, HHP program coordinator. “She has provided training for our HHP Faculty in many areas of advising including Degree Works, graduation application processing, and helpful techniques in finding the right advisement path for our students.” 

Wallace holds a bachelor’s degree in community health education from the University of Central Arkansas. Additionally, she earned a master’s degree in health sciences from UA Little Rock and is pursuing a doctorate in higher education administration.