University awards college team with academic advising awards

Outstanding contributions to student advising by the Texas A&M College of Architecture’s nine [academic advisers] (http://www.arch.tamu.edu/undergraduate/student-services/contacts/) were recognized with university-level awards presented May 7, 2018.

The group, led by David Wentling, director of [student services] (http://www.arch.tamu.edu/academics/student-services/) , earned the Advising Team Award from University Advisors and Counselors, a network of Texas A&M professionals who strive to provide the optimum atmosphere for student academic development.

The college’s counselors perform undergraduate advising and recruiting, conduct New Student Conference academic meetings, host open houses, and contribute to numerous, additional college events.

“Each of these advisers is part of a cohesive, high-performance team, focused on continuous improvement and a constant quest for flawless execution in the areas that demonstrate a respectful, caring attitude toward advisees, faculty and staff,” said Jorge Vanegas, dean of the college, in an award nomination letter.

At the award ceremony, the team received a plaque and a cash award for professional development or training.

College of Architecture advisory team members are: Zephaniah Bartie, Michael Clement, Kelli Edmunds, Edgar Morales, Jill Raupe, Janet Richards, Rachel Wales, Michael White, and Daniel Wu.

Richards also earned the Ed Guthrie Advising Award, which recognizes professional advising staff who embody the spirit of caring, compassionate, skillful advisement and genuine concern for the welfare of individual students. She received a plaque and cash award.

She was lauded in an award nomination letter by Breanna-Lynn Montalvo, a former Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning student, who credited Richards with not only serving as an exemplary academic adviser but as a friend who counseled her through some challenging years as an undergraduate.

“As a first-generation transfer student, I found myself completely overwhelmed by the thought of attending a Tier One university with more than 60,000 students,” said Montalvo. “Determined to aid in my success, Richards took the time to ensure all my questions were answered, my classes were in order, and most importantly, my spirit was up. I could always count on her energetic personality and vibrant smile welcoming me into her office.”

Richard Nira
rnira@arch.tamu.edu