Kansas State University

K-State's inaugural doctoral cohort in leadership in academic advising begins this summer

Submitted by Patrice Scott

Doctoral students from Oregon to Connecticut are making history by enrolling in the inaugural cohort for the College of Education's doctorare in leadership in academic advising, the first doctoral program in the world focused on academic advising in higher education.

The doctoral program — which emphasizes the critical study of the impact, context and theoretical underpinnings of academic advising in higher education — is 90 credit hours and offered online through K-State Global Campus.

The program is the result of the innovative four-decade collaboration between the College of Education and NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising.

"NACADA is proud of its long-standing partnership with the College of Education at Kansas State University," said Charlie L. Nutt, NACADA executive director. "It is an honor to be connected with this ground-breaking program, and the NACADA board of directors and executive office congratulate the students in this inaugural cohort."

Debbie Mercer, dean of the College of Education, believes the power of this program lies with its inherent connection to student success.

"Now, perhaps more than ever, the need for quality academic advising is noteworthy as it is a critical component of student success," Mercer said. "Kansas State University is proud to contribute to the knowledge base gained through scholarly inquiry and research that details best practices, theories and impact." 

Ken Hughey, professor and chair of the department of special education, counseling and student affairs, said he was impressed with the quality of applicants to the program.   

"We are very pleased to announce the inaugural cohort for the online doctoral program in leadership in academic advising," Hughey said. "A committed group of professionals from across the country has met monthly in preparation for coursework beginning this summer. We are excited about this unique doctoral program, our latest advancement in the field of academic advising."

The cohort members:

• Laurie Baker, Rowan University's director of global office of academic advising and student information services.
• Helena E. Cole, University of New Haven's director of the Centers for Academic Success and Advising.
• Audrey Cox, University of Washington Tacoma's School of Nursing and Healthcare Leadership advisor and recruiter.
• Ann Hintz, St. Norbert College's director of academic advisement.
• Michelle Maller, Oregon State University's internship and education coordinator.
• Katherine Mehrer, University of Mary's Student Success Center assistant director.
• Julie M. Montgomery, Sinclair Community College's advising generalist.
• Jose Ramos, Old Dominion University's associate director of the office of intercultural relations academic advisor/success coach.
• Billie Streufert, Augustana University's Student Success Center executive director.
• Lisa Tolliver, Franklin University's graduate advising office team leader.
• Leticia J. Wilson, Del Mar College's advising initiatives director.
• Chloe Wurst, graduate teaching assistant for Kansas State University's Center for Intercultural and Multilingual Advocacy.