Davis recognized as outstanding professional academic advisor

Janelle Davis, academic advisor at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, is being honored with the 2024 Outstanding Professional Advising Award, which is bestowed to an advisor who exemplifies the best qualities of academic staff advisors.

"I am so honored and appreciative to be recognized for my work as an advisor at UW-Platteville," said Davis. "I'm also very thankful for the amazing support from my supervisors, colleagues, family and friends who have assisted me in my own professional journey as an advisor."

As a UW-Platteville alumna, Davis said she is deeply committed to helping students reach their personal and academic goals. As an advisor, she strives to not only inspire and support students in their major exploration and career decisions but also by engaging in discussions that help them learn and grow as individuals.

"Janelle exemplifies the qualities and dedication that this award seeks to honor, and her contributions to our institution and its students are truly exceptional," said Nadia Sifri, academic advisor in the biology departmentat UW-Platteville and Davis' nominator. "Her compassionate demeanor, coupled with her organized and effective approach to advising, has significantly enhanced the academic journey of countless students."

Davis, who works primarily with first-year students, enjoys interacting one-on-one with students and helping them develop their own toolbox of resources and strategies to use while adapting to both the classroom and life. She said it's exciting to watch the trajectory of growth and confidence from their first day of college to their graduation, knowing she played a role in helping them on their journey.

"I truly believe that academic advising is an integral part of the higher education experience and that academic advisors play a key role in the support of students on campus," said Davis. "I genuinely try to be a positive, motivational influence - someone who students feel comfortable approaching as they navigate the complexities and successes of their academic journey."

Davis was recognized at the university's annual faculty and staff convocation on Tuesday, Aug. 27.