Poole College’s Gwyn Howard Wins New Advisor Award

For many students, an academic advisor is more than just someone who helps them pick classes. A great advisor is a mentor, a guide and a source of unwavering support throughout their college journey. That’s why Poole College is proud to celebrate Gwyn Howard, the recipient of NC State’s New Advisor Award for her outstanding commitment to student success.

Howard’s path to academic advising began in graduate school, where she pursued a degree in higher education student affairs at Western Carolina University. During that time, she explored various roles within higher education but found that the most rewarding part was the one-on-one conversations with students.

“I deeply benefited from mentorship and guidance in my own educational journey, so being able to pay it forward in my job is incredibly fulfilling,” she shared.

Although she originally set out to become a high school history teacher, Howard quickly discovered her passion for higher education. Mentors —including Greek life advisors, student affair supervisors and professors —helped her realize that the field offered broader opportunities for her career aspirations. “I have always wanted to be an educator, and I found my home in higher education,” she said.

Howard describes her advising philosophy as interdisciplinary and holistic —drawing from student development theories, her personal experiences and continual learning. She strives to see students as whole individuals, considering both their academic and personal lives when offering guidance.

“Every student is unique, so I adapt my approach to best support their needs and goals,” she explained.

A key part of her advising style is empowering students to make their own decisions. Rather than telling students what to do, she lays out options, explains university policies and encourages them to ask questions. “I want students to feel confident in their choices. If they need additional support, I ensure they receive an intentional referral to the right resources,” she said.

For Howard, the most rewarding part of advising is seeing students overcome obstacles and achieve success. “My students feel like they’re failing when they struggle, but I remind them that challenges are a natural part of growth,” she said.

“College is difficult, and learning to navigate early adulthood is tough. My role is to help students be kinder to themselves and recognize their strengths.”

Winning the New Advisor Award is a meaningful milestone in Howard’s career. “I’m deeply honored and grateful,” she said. “First and foremost, I thank the students who trust me to support me. I also appreciate my advising team, especially my colleague Toyette Sullivan, associate director of advising programs, who nominated me. This recognition motivates me to continue doing my best for our students at Poole College.”

“You don’t become a great advisor overnight. Mistakes will happen, and not every student will connect with you — but give yourself grace.”

“Since joining our team in June of 2023, Gwyn has demonstrated a commitment to fostering student success through personalized advising and innovative programming,” shares Sullivan. “As a point person for transfer students, she ensures seamless onboarding and academic planning, tailoring support to the unique needs of each student.”

Looking ahead, Howard hopes to future develop her skills and, one day, pursue a terminal degree with a focus on academic affairs. However, no matter where her career takes her, one thing remains certain: She will always be dedicated to supporting students.

To new advisors just starting in the field, Howard offers this advice:

“You don’t become a great advisor overnight. Mistakes will happen, and not every student will connect with you — but give yourself grace. Treat students as individuals, meet them where they are, and build relationships based on trust. That’s what makes the difference.”