Heidi Ackerman, academic advisor in agronomy, is the recipient of the staff 2024 Early Achievement in Advising Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. She has more than 100 advisees and is a student favorite in the department.
Ackerman believes an advisor is the connection between each unique, individual student and the university. With every student at Iowa State being assigned at least one academic advisor, this system is critical for the equitable service of students. An academic advisor is ideally a student’s advocate, supporter and mentor for their entire undergraduate journey. Academic advising at its best results in a well-educated and well-prepared professional entering the workforce or graduate school upon completion of an undergraduate degree.
Ackerman achieves this through an intentional focus on not only a student’s academics, but also their overall wellness. She has advisees complete a questionnaire prior to appointments that can identify some issues that might not come up in conversation. She has also developed a list of personal well-being resources that students can use on Iowa State’s campus. Ackerman has several advisees who are currently in the military or are veterans. She has made a point to search out and familiarize herself with resources that active duty and veteran students can benefit from. “Any time I am struggling or needing help, Heidi always has time to talk and help me work through any issues either in my coursework or extra curriculars,” said one student. “Heidi not only supports my goals, but suggests ways to achieve my goals while reducing my stress levels and workload.”
Ackerman serves on the University Academic Advising Committee and represents the interests of students through her involvement in the CALS Academic Affairs Committee, Agronomy Curriculum Committee and the Agronomy DEI Committee.