Staff Spotlight: Ayo Agunbiade

Ayo Agunbiade is the senior academic advisor in the Office of Undergraduate Programs and has been with Poole College since June 2017. The Washington, D.C. native received his master of education from Longwood University with a concentration in community and college counseling.

Agunbiade manages around 500 students, teaches sections of M100, and helps lead our advising assessment and evaluation initiatives. He is also a member of the National Academic Advising Association and previously served as an academic coordinator for the Academic Support Program for student-athletes when he first began his career at NC State.

Work at Poole College

Why did you decide to join Poole College?

I joined the undergraduate advising team in Poole because of the fulfillment I receive from supporting students through their educational journey. I also get to work with a team of outstanding advisors who are some of the best in our field.

What have you enjoyed most about your experience at Poole College?

Poole students go out of their way to show their gratitude for the support that we provide. You don’t find that everywhere. It is refreshing and energizing.

What do you see as the greatest strengths of Poole College?

The greatest strength of Poole College is its collaborative intellectual environment. It is one that fosters learning and growth. It challenges each member to think critically and creatively to find new solutions to new challenges.

What advice would you give a staff member who has recently joined Poole College?

Don’t hesitate to ask for help, even if it’s from someone in a different department. We may have different workspaces, but we have shared values and a shared mission. The success of our students is at the core of everything we do.

Life Outside of Poole

When you are not at Poole College, what do you enjoy doing for fun? 

I enjoy reading, watching documentaries and movies, exercise, and listening to music.

What do you consider as your greatest accomplishment outside of work?

I was a football captain at Southern Connecticut State University. During my senior season, I led my team in tackles and helped lead us to a division championship.