To help students thrive, academic advisers at the University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science do a lot more than guide course selections to meet degree requirements.
They also coach, advocate, listen, comfort and opine on behalf of their students. And for doing these things with exceptional knowledge and compassion, professor of civil and environmental engineering Jonathan Goodall and director of undergraduate success Georgina Nembhard are the 2024-25 Undergraduate Advising Excellence Award winners.
The award is given for “dedication to holistic advising” and “outstanding program support of student academic and personal growth,” according to UVA Engineering’s Office of Undergraduate Programs.
“We know all kinds of issues affect academic success, from learning good study habits to coping with life stress outside of their academic work,” said Lisa Lampe, UVA Engineering’s assistant dean for undergraduate affairs.
“We are committed to meeting students’ whole-life needs, and it is a pleasure to honor Jon and Georgina for the impact they clearly have had on their advisees.”
And the approach works: About 90% of first-time students who enter UVA Engineering consistently graduate within four years, a number more than double the historical national four-year graduation rate, according to the American Society for Engineering Education.
Here’s why Goodall and Nembhard were named this year’s award winners.
Making Room for Learning That Brings Extra Happiness
Faculty member and Link Lab director Goodall “has guided me in the right direction every single time I have sought counsel from him,” wrote one civil engineering major, who was advised by Goodall for four years. “Now, I have reached a place in my academic journey where I have so much to be proud of: a good GPA, a major I am passionate about, and two minors. All of this is because of Professor Goodall.”
The student minored in art history in addition to environmental science, an unusual combination for an engineering student, but a course of study encouraged by Goodall. “He encouraged me to pursue [the minors] if they made me happy and made my education more enjoyable,” the student said. “He assured me that any learning was worthwhile as long as I was passionate about the additional work.”
Goodall also remembers family details, upcoming events and aspirations, the student wrote.
“Whenever I meet with him, it’s as if we are working together on the common goal of helping me achieve everything I want at UVA, and he is just as invested as I am.”
Where Warmth and Professionalism Coincide
Staff member Nembhard’s compassion and empathy won over one student who was struggling to find time for sleep and studying.
“She told me how she related to the challenges of time management and even showed me her calendar while giving me advice on how to keep track of my time. She also encouraged me to add practices and activities that cultivate community and relaxation into my schedule.”
Nembhard tailors advice to specific goals and challenges, the student wrote.
“She encourages me to challenge my doubts and assumptions, helping me recognize my potential. Her guidance has been invaluable in setting long-term goals and pushing me to explore new opportunities. She has helped me build meaningful academic, professional and personal connections, making me feel like I belong at UVA.
“Whether I’m facing a tough decision in my engineering path or simply need someone to talk to, she is the first person I turn to. She combines professionalism with a genuine warmth that creates a safe space where I can openly discuss my concerns and receive thoughtful advice.”