Stephanie Hansen, professor in animal science, is the recipient of the faculty 2024 Outstanding Achievement in Advising Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. Academic advising contributes to her 30% teaching effort, and she provides guidance and support to 30 undergraduate students annually.
Her primary objective as an academic advisor is to minimize barriers on the path to timely graduation. Hansen pursues this goal with a proactive strategy, engaging students early in their academic journey to ensure they understand both her role in their success and, critically, their own. She believes in empowering students to take charge of their educational experience. Beyond the classroom, she is dedicated to shaping well-rounded professionals. This involves offering career advice, facilitating internships in the beef industry and providing guidance on graduate or veterinary school applications.
Hansen is leading the charge on an innovative strengths-based initiative in the department. Strengths-based mentoring focused on assessment, affirmation and application of students’ strength is a cornerstone of her advising method. This method empowers students to develop their full potential, improving relationships, increasing trust and enhancing communication in a technically demanding field. She has also served the University Honors Program in many capacities, from honors liaison for animal science to serving as chair of the college committee.
“Professor Hansen is dedicated to student development, innovative initiatives and transformative impact on the advising culture at Iowa State University...,” states a colleague. ”Her approach not only embodies the ideals of effective advising, but also sets a high standard for student engagement and success in the academic community.”