The University College Outstanding Service to Students Award is awarded to a new and veteran student success advisor or career consultant in the office of Academic and Career Development that demonstrates qualities and practices in accordance with the criteria outlined below.

The recipients must work as a student success advisor or career consultant and have been employed by Academic and Career Development (ACD) in University College for at least one calendar year prior to receiving the award. The award can be received more than once if at least two years have passed since it was last received.

• New Staff Award—for staff employed one to three years
• Veteran Staff Award—for staff employed for three or more years

Students are asked to nominate staff members in late January to early February through an online survey. Communications to students include posters, digital signage, emails, and a link to the survey through the appointment follow-up email. 

The top three veteran and new staff members with the highest number of nominations are then reviewed by ACD leadership for supervisor approval and then passed on to the selection committee for review.

The selection committee consists of at least two faculty members and at least two award recipients from the previous year or two. The top nominees submit their documents, which include a professional philosophy statement, resume, and other supporting materials, to the Box site. The committee members review the materials and complete an evaluation sheet for each nominee. The evaluation sheets for the nominees with the highest scores are reviewed by ACD leadership. Award recipient information is due to the DUE awards convocation committee in March or April to be included in the program.

The selection committee will evaluate nominations on the evidence of qualities and practices that distinguish the nominee in the following categories:

• Interpersonal and Communication Skills
  • Creates meaningful relationships with students
  • Conveys a positive attitude in day-to-day work with students
  • Communicates information clearly and concisely
  • Shows empathy and a spirit of care for students
• Academic or Career Advising Knowledge and Skills
  • Conveys information accurately
  • Is knowledgeable about area of expertise and makes few errors
  • Makes appropriate referrals
  • Monitors student progress and efforts to outreach to students at risk
  • Conveys understanding of the developmental needs of students
  • Seeks training and professional development opportunities
• Approach to Diversity
  • Demonstrates an understanding of the unique needs of students from diverse backgrounds
  • Seeks opportunities to learn more about diverse student populations
  • Conveys concern for all students
• Teamwork
  • Shows evidence of contributions to ACD and the cluster team
  • Brings unique ideas or innovations to ACD and the cluster team
  • Conveys a positive team spirit, attitude, and behavior