News

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville academic advisors Maureen Bell-Werner and Mary Beth Overby have received national recognition for their outstanding contributions to student success.

The National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) has awarded Bell-Werner, assistant director for first-year services at SIUE, a Certificate of Merit for the Outstanding Advising Award – Primary Advising Role.

The NACADA also awarded Overby, advisor, with a Certificate of Merit for the Outstanding New Advising Award – Primary Advising Role.

According to Cheryle Tucker, director of academic advising, Bell-Werner and Overby both exceed expectations when it comes to their commitment to the University. 

“Maureen seeks out opportunities to work with students, faculty and staff in order to better serve students at SIUE,” Tucker said. “She is sincerely interested in and dedicated to student success.

“Mary Beth served as one of the first academic advisors to work in a residence hall at SIUE,” added Tucker. “She successfully made this transition into a model of excellence for our residential first-year students.”

Academic advisors play a key role in the retention and success of SIUE’s students. Students are required to meet with an advisor every semester.

“This provides opportunities for students to become more knowledgeable about their academic careers and engage with a master’s-level professional at the University,” explained Tucker. “Academic advisors also provide additional time and resources for students who are in academic difficulty, which improves their chances of success.”

The NACADA is an association of professional advisors, counselors, faculty, administrators and students working to enhance the educational development of students.