An advocate for students

WWU communications professor wins award for outstanding advising

Deborah Silva, professor of communications, has been selected to receive the Outstanding Advising Award in the Faculty Academic Advising category from the Global Community for the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA), as part of the 2016 Annual Awards Program for Academic Advising.

Silva will be honored and presented with the award in Atlanta, Georgia, during the NACADA annual conference this fall.

This award is presented to individuals who have demonstrated qualities associated with outstanding academic advising of students. The Faculty Academic Advising category includes those individuals whose primary responsibility is teaching and who spend a portion of their time providing academic advising services to students.

“I believe that one of the key roles I take on as an advisor is as an advocate for students. I want them to know that there is always someone in their corner that will be there whenever they need help, guidance, and support when needed,” says Silva.

Since 1983, NACADA has honored individuals and institutions making significant contributions to the improvement of academic advising. The goal of NACADA is to promote quality academic advising and professional development of its membership to enhance the educational development of students. NACADA is the representative and advocate of academic advising and those providing that service to higher education.

“I hope to continue honing my abilities as an advisor and always be mindful of not ‘resting on my laurels,’” says Silva.

Posted May 18, 2016

Deborah Silva, professor of communications, has been teaching at Walla Walla University since 2000.