Academic Advisor First to Win NACADA Scholarship

Ashley Anderson's passion for student success drives her work as an academic advisor at North Carolina Central University's (NCCU) University College.

After earning her master's degree in 2023 in student affairs administration from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Anderson joined NCCU to help guide freshmen and sophomore students toward achieving their academic and career goals.

Known for pushing students to excel, Anderson also leads by example. This year, she pursued professional growth through NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising association.

Her dedication paid off in August when she became the first recipient of the Christy Carlson Memorial Scholarship, that comes with $1,500. The scholarship honors Christy Carlson, a NACADA member who was committed to fostering inclusion and transformative experiences for students.

Anderson's application stood out, highlighting her commitment to leadership and student empowerment. In her submission, she wrote:

"One of my core values is legacy. I'm passionate about what I will leave behind for future generations, inspired by watching my nephew, a young Black boy, grow and thrive despite the world around him."

Thanks to the scholarship, Anderson will attend the NACADA Annual Conference this October in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - her first professional conference.