Nominate an Advisor for an Academic Advisor Award!

Nominations are closed for the 2023-2024 Academic Advisor Awards

Academic advisors are a vital part of student success here at Mason, and you have an opportunity each year to nominate an undergraduate academic advisor for an Academic Advisor Award.

The purpose of these awards is to recognize excellence in academic advising across Mason and to show our appreciation of the academic advising community. In 2020, the Academic Advisor of the Year Award was named after V. Ann Lewis in recognition of Ann’s impact on the academic advising community during her 23 years working at Mason. In 2022, the Patriot Inspiration Award and the Unsung Hero Award were created to recognize advisors going above and beyond in diversity, equity, inclusion, and advocacy.

Academic Advisors include major advisors, minor advisors, Honors advisors, Exploratory advisors, and pre-professional advisors (pre-law and pre-health).

Awards Criteria

V. Ann Lewis Academic Advisor of the Year Award
  • Demonstrates a caring, helpful attitude toward students
  • Communicates with clarity and empathy, making complex information understandable for students
  • Encourages students to reach out and actively seeks opportunities to engage with them
  • Guides students to relevant resources that can aid in their academic success
  • Has extensive knowledge of George Mason University regulations, policies, and procedures
  • Exemplifies an unwavering commitment to putting the needs and interests of students at the forefront of advising practices
  • Uses inclusive language and communication strategies that make all students feel valued and welcome
  • Tailors advising strategies to address the unique challenges and aspirations of individual students
Patriot Inspiration Award
  • Demonstrates a deep understanding and respect for diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences
  • Advocates for the needs of underrepresented students and ensures they have equal access to resources and opportunities
  • Contributes to the development and implementation of policies and initiatives that enhance inclusivity and belonging
  • Facilitates opportunities to bring people from different backgrounds at the university together
  • Incorporates the use of scholarly and/or professional work to enhance the success of students from underserved and minoritized communities
Unsung Hero Award
  • Exhibits qualities that make them a quiet yet powerful force in the academic advising community, often working behind the scenes without seeking acknowledgment
  • Advocates for the importance of academic advising in fostering student success within the institution
  • Consistently demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the efficient functioning of their department by providing comprehensive support and sharing relevant knowledge, expertise, and best practices
  • Engages in ongoing professional development to stay informed about the evolving needs of students and best practices in advising
  • Develops strategies to enhance the advising process, resulting in streamlined operations, increased efficiency, and improved outcomes for students and faculty alike

Complete this form to nominate an undergraduate academic advisor who has made an impact and deserves recognition for it!

(One vote per student please.)

The last day to submit a nomination is Friday, March 1, 2024.

The award selection committee will review the nominations, and the awards will be presented at the Mason Advising Symposium in May. The “top 10” academic advisors will also be recognized at the ceremony.

You can view last year’s recipients on the Mason Advisor Awards and Recognition page.