Academic Advising Awards recognize outstanding undergraduate advisors

ckearney — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:56:51 +0000

Academic Advising Awards recognize outstanding undergraduate advisors ckearney Tue, 06/02/2026 - 11:56

The Office of Academic Advising has announced the recipients of the 2026 Academic Advising Awards, recognizing undergraduate advisors who have made a meaningful impact on student success across 91��.

This year, the awards drew 376 nominations representing 97 individuals from across the university, highlighting the important role advisors play in helping students navigate their academic journeys and build a sense of belonging at George Mason.

“Advising touches the entirety of the community in such positive ways, and that becomes even more clear when you read award nominations,” said Michelle Steiner, director of undergraduate academic success in the Office of Academic Advising. “It is deeply personal work with a direct impact on student success.”

This year’s nominations came from a broad range of units and advising roles across the university, reflecting growing awareness of the awards process across campus.

“This is my fourth year coordinating the awards, and one thing that stood out to me this year is the number of new names being recognized for the great work they are doing,” said academic advisor coordinator Sylvia Lee.

The 2026 selection committee included representatives from Undergraduate Education, the Mason Academic Advisor Network, Student Success Coaching, and a previous award recipient.

Academic Advisor of the Year

Rebecca Lane. Photo by John Boal Photography

Rebecca Lane of the College of Engineering and Computing has been named the 2026 V. Ann Lewis Academic Advisor of the Year.

Now in its 22nd year, the award is selected exclusively from student nominations and recognizes an advisor who demonstrates exceptional commitment to supporting undergraduate students. Named in honor of Lewis, a longtime George Mason advisor, the award reflects a legacy of student-centered advising.

Students described Lane as someone who listens carefully, creates a welcoming and inclusive environment, and goes above and beyond to support their success. One student wrote that Lane “always makes time to listen,” adding that she creates “a safe space for students from all backgrounds.”

Patriot Inspiration Award

Sofia Quiroga Paz. Photo by John Boal Photography

Sofia Quiroga Paz of the Costello College of Business received the Patriot Inspiration Award, which recognizes advisors who demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in their work with students.

Now in its fifth year, the award is based on nominations from students, faculty, and staff, and highlights efforts to support a wide range of student experiences.

One nominator described Quiroga Paz as someone who “creates a strong sense of belonging for every student she works with,” highlighting her ability to connect students to resources and opportunities across campus. Nominations also noted her work supporting military-affiliated students, first-generation students, and multilingual students, as well as her efforts to foster collaboration across the university community.

Unsung Hero Award

Joshua Fletcher. Photo by John Boal Photography

Joshua Fletcher of the College of Engineering and Computing received the Unsung Hero Award, which honors advisors whose work has a significant impact behind the scenes.

Also in its fifth year, the award recognizes contributions that strengthen advising operations and enhance the student experience.

Fletcher was spotlighted for his leadership in undergraduate advising and his behind-the-scenes contributions to supporting students and advising operations. Nomination materials highlighted his commitment to a student-first approach and his efforts to strengthen advising practices within his unit.

Top 10 Advisors

From left, Martin Abruzzo, Robert Yi, Jana Biever, Jordan Emely, Collin Arthur, William Hanauer, and Claudia Borke. Photo by John Boal Photography

In addition to the award recipients, 10 advisors were recognized for their outstanding contributions:

Martin Abruzzo, College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Elli Ambros, College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Collin Arthur, Costello College of Business
Jana Biever, Schar School of Policy and Government
Claudia Borke, College of Engineering and Computing
Jordan Emely, Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution
William Hanauer, Costello College of Business
Troy Lowery, College of Public Health
Allison Winters, Bachelor of Applied Science Program
Robert Yi, College of Visual and Performing Arts

Awards were open to faculty and staff who provide academic advising to undergraduate students at George Mason. Nominations were submitted by students, faculty, and staff, and reviewed anonymously by a selection committee to ensure a fair and equitable process.

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

Office of the Provost

Academic Advising

Margot Harris