By Colleen Glenn

Last week, Jamie Wheeler, academic advisor in the College of Arts and Sciences, learned that the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) selected her to win the Outstanding Advising Award.

As remarkable as this achievement is, Wheeler’s award actually marks the second year in a row an advisor from the College of Arts & Sciences from the University of Kentucky has won this award. Last year, Jessica Baer took home the same prize.

“For an advisor from the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Kentucky to win the NACADA National Outstanding Advising Award two years in a row speaks volumes about the high-level of advising that is happening here,” said Greg Bocchino, Director of A&S Advising and Student Services. “We take pride in our thorough and professional approach to helping students, but just as important is the personal connection we are able to make. Jamie is an exemplary advisor, and this honor shines a light on the advising we strive to accomplish.”

The NACADA Outstanding Advising Award marks a perfect trifecta for Wheeler, who earned the Ken Freedman UK Outstanding Advisor Award this year, as well as the NACADA Region III Outstanding Academic Advisor for the state of Kentucky.

Wheeler, who has been an advisor in A&S for five years, enjoys getting to know her advisees over the years and helping them to complete their degree. “It’s very rewarding to see students graduate,” she said.

“Jamie demonstrates a level of commitment to her students and advising that goes above and beyond expectations,” said Abby Webb, an Assistant Director of Advising in the College of Arts & Sciences. “She is clearly a leader, role model, and inspiration, not only to her students, but to her colleagues across campus.”

Wheeler earned her Master’s degree in Teaching English as a Second Langue (TESL) from the English Department at UK, and stayed on to pursue a career in academic advising. When she considers what led her to career choice, she remembers her undergraduate days.

“I had a great advisor when I was an undergraduate. She was so encouraging to me, and I think she was just a really great influence.”

Earlier this month, Wheeler traveled to Charlotte, NC to receive the NACADA regional award. In October, she will go to Nashville to receive the national honor.

In spite of these tremendous achievements off campus, Wheeler said that the day she was recognized with the Ken Freedman Outstanding Advisor Award here at UK remains the most special of the honors.

“It was an awesome feeling to be surrounded by all of these people I love and admire – probably the best day of my professional life.”

>>Listen to a podcast we recorded with Jamie after she won the Ken Freedman Outstanding Advisor Award