Outstanding Student Academic Advising Administrator
Pam Hennessey, M.Ed.
Director of Academic Advising, College of Nursing
Recognizing a distinguished administrator within Auburn’s advising community, Hennessey brings over 20 years of leadership experience, overseeing programs for more than 1,200 students. As a key member of the college’s leadership team, Hennessey has emphasized personalized guidance and assisting students in navigating course selections, clinical placements, and career planning. This approach ensures that current and future nurses are well-prepared for the demanding healthcare field. Additionally, Hennessey implemented a reimagined, holistic admissions process, enhancing student experiences from their initial interactions with the college.
Outstanding Advisor, Primary Role
Elizabeth Gowan
Academic Advisor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Samuel Ginn College of Engineering
In addition to advising students within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Gowan actively advances student success by co-advising the university’s chapter of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Beyond her advising responsibilities, Gowan has remained actively engaged with Auburn’s advising community, serving the Advisors and Counselors Caucus in various roles, including treasurer (2020-21), chair-elect (2021-22) and chair (2022-23). Leading with the philosophy that students are “more than just a number,” Gowan remains a valuable asset to the college and the university’s broader advising community.
Outstanding New Advisor
Mallory Beck
Academic Advisor, Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture
Honoring an advisor with less than three years of service to Auburn’s advising community, Beck has made significant contributions as an advisor for both the College of Agriculture’s Peer Mentors program and the Collegiate Cattlemen and Cattlewomen Association. As a two-time Auburn graduate, Beck’s advising philosophy emphasizes providing comprehensive support for all students through campus-wide relationships and resources, including Camp War Eagle and S.O.S. Beck's dedication to fostering student success is evident through her commitment to creating a supportive and enriching environment for all students.
Outstanding Student Support Representative
Dr. Cary Sockwell Curtiss
Associate Registrar, Pathway and Transfer Center, Office of the Registrar
Recognizing individuals who support student success through non-advising roles, Curtiss' dedication to Auburn students' academic and personal success has been evident throughout her service to the university. Since 2020, Curtiss has been an associate registrar and established the Pathway and Transfer Center, a unit she helped create to support students transferring into the institution or utilizing dual or concurrent enrollments. Through the Center, Curtiss supports students in Auburn First, Path to the Plains and key transfer programs, helping them navigate the processes and resources at the university. Curtiss also teaches first-year exploratory courses, demonstrating her commitment to student success inside and outside the classroom.
Outstanding Faculty Mentor
Dr. Makeela Wells
Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work, College of Liberal Arts
Recognizing a faculty member with over three years of dedicated mentoring service, Wells is celebrated for a mentoring philosophy that emphasizes the cultivation of each student’s unique identity. Since joining Auburn’s faculty in 2020, Wells has also served as an advisor to the Auburn Chapter of the National Council of Negro Women, the Sociology Club at Auburn University and the Beta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta, the International Sociology Honor Society.
Outstanding Advising Program
The Exploration Center
Career Discovery and Success, Office of the Provost
Recognized for its innovative practices that significantly enhance advising services for students who are undecided about their major, the Exploration Center offers a comprehensive approach that ensures Auburn students are well-prepared to make informed decisions about their academic and career paths. Through multiple avenues, including the Exploratory Major and the Action Program, the center guides students through all stages of their academic journey. The center's success is evident in its positive student feedback and high retention rates, aligning with its goals of fostering college and career readiness.
