Three UCM Employees Recognized With Outstanding Advising Awards

From left, Ashley Gage, associate professor of Social Work; Alyssa Duke, Academic Success Advisor; and Alex Kent, Senior Academic Success Advisor, are pictured at the annual MACADA conference, where they each received Outstanding Academic Advising Awards.

 

Continuing a pattern of excellence in advising, two staff members and one faculty member at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) have been recognized by the Missouri Academic Advising Association (MACADA).

Senior Academic Success Advisor Alex Kent was awarded the Outstanding Academic Advising Award for Academic Advisor as a Primary Role. Academic Success Advisor Alyssa Duke was selected as the recipient of the Outstanding Academic Advising Award for Academic Advisor as a New Advisor. Ashley Gage, associate professor of Social Work, received the Outstanding Academic Advising Award for Faculty Academic Advising.

MACADA is a statewide organization that promotes excellence in academic advising and supports the development of professional competencies linked to students' academic achievement, retention and persistence to graduation.

Natalie Peirce, assistant director of Student Success, said the awards showcase the great work advisors and faculty are doing to assist and retain UCM students. 

Alex Kent

Kent, a UCM alumnus, has worked at the university for eight years. In addition to his typical advising duties, Kent has also taken on a leadership role with the Reset for College Success courses, designed for students on probation for the first time or returning to UCM on academic suspension. The focus is on identifying barriers and poor habits, then helping students develop successful routines to improve academically and skills that can be utilized after graduation.

Kent and Academic Success Advisor Julie Carman presented about the program at the NACADA Regional Conference in February and the NACADA Global Conference in October.

In his nomination, students said Kent is always available to answer questions and offer support. One student said Kent takes a genuine interest in their education and goals, while another said Kent greets them by name in the hallway and remembers what classes they’re taking that semester.

 

“Alex is the most generous and kind person I met on campus,” a third student said. “I spoke with him a little bit before my freshman year started here and since day one, he has been the most supportive and delightful soul. He has helped me in more ways than I could ever count on and I am truly thankful to have him as my advisor.”

Kent said he enjoys working with students during times of difficulty and has found inspiration in seeing their attitude, effort and determination to overcome. 

“I utilize a coaching style of advising to help build relationships and help the students I work with identify academic and personal and professional goals and overcome obstacles,” Kent said. “I think back to my college experience and there were several people across this campus that had a positive impact on me as a student, an athlete and a human. My goal is to be the person I had and needed in college for our students at UCM.”

Alyssa Duke

Duke has worked for the university for almost two years. She said no day is ever the same, as her work with students ranges from enrollment and graduation planning to mental health and study skills. Duke said she strives to connect with students on a personal level.

“Advising is not just about providing answers. It is about equipping students with the skills and knowledge to make their own informed decisions,” Duke said. “I believe that academic success is linked with personal well-being and growth. I like to express to students that I am here for them as a person, not just a student. I understand that academic success starts outside the classroom, and I strive to address not only academic concerns but also social and emotional needs.”

This summer, Duke completed the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Certification, which will help her assist students in career and major exploration, along with self-discovery. She is also an instructor for Reset for College Success.

Duke is one of UCM’s newer advisors, and students have already said she is “amazing” and goes above and beyond to help.

 

"Alyssa, hands down, has been the most helpful, enthusiastic, encouraging and supportive advisor I have worked with,” a student said.

“Alyssa is a great advisor and works hard to ensure that all students at UCM succeed,” said another student.

Being an advisor at her alma mater has been a full-circle experience for Duke, who was a first-generation college student at UCM.

“I love being able to help students transition to college and feel supported every step of the way, just like my advisor did for me when I was a student,” Duke added.

Ashley Gage

Gage, who has been with the university for eight years, has served as a research mentor to several students in the McNair Scholars Program. She said this role has been rewarding because she works closely with students on their research journeys as they develop ideas and explore their passions.

“It’s a privilege to witness their growth as scholars and aspirations for graduate-level education, which is particularly meaningful for students who are often the first in their families to attend college,” Gage said.

In 2018, Gage and Assistant Instructor Juanice Williams collaborated to receive a faculty opportunity grant that allowed them to become certified Mental Health First Aid instructors. Since then, they’ve certified every Social Work major, intending to foster peer support among students and provide them with additional training before they graduate.

Gage said professors are the frontline of student engagement, which makes advising and mentoring students a vital part of their work. She uses her social work background to meet students where they are instead of a one-size-fits-all approach.

“My goal is to support students not just as learners but as emerging professionals who will one day make meaningful contributions to society,” Gage explained. “I view myself as a mentor who walks alongside them in their journey, helping them develop the skills and self-awareness they need to succeed personally and professionally.”

A transfer student said they had difficulty adjusting to the social work program because their credits transferred differently than expected. Gage checked in with the student and made sure their well-being was prioritized. 

 

"Dr. Gage has helped me create amazing study and time management habits – something that is vital for all college students,” another student said. “She notices when her students are struggling and meets with them like she did for me!"

For more information about advising at UCM, visit ucmo.edu/advising.