Tamara Kerns, academic advisor in agricultural and biosystems engineering, is the recipient of the staff 2026 Outstanding Achievement in Advising Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. She has provided a stabilizing force to the industrial technology program and led recruitment for the new biological and biomanufacturing systems technology option.
Kerns believes building relationships is the most important part of her job as an academic advisor. Industrial technology students often come to the program through an internal transfer from other degree programs. They often feel disengaged, discouraged and unsure about their academic future, or whether they will even be able to earn a bachelor s degree. Her rapport with students, her attention and advocacy to their individual needs, and the care with which she manages each of her advisees reflect her strengths in building relationships. She uses these same skills in her role as co-advisor of the Industrial Technology Club, building networks with industry partners and program alums.
"Tamara has managed her advising load effectively, with students citing her communication skills, her approachability, and her non-judgmental approach to resolving issues as especially helpful," stated a colleague. "Students also note her calming nature, with many crediting her for easing their anxieties about transferring into industrial technology..."