Leigh Southward, associate professor and academic adviser in the Dale Bumpers College, was awarded the 2021 Academic Advising Council's Keeping it Professional Award. This award recognizes the professional persistence required to stay organized and together over the past year.

Southward was recognized for her ability to balance pivoting to Microsoft Teams meetings and still accommodating the variety of needs of her students. Even though Southward is a 9-month faculty member, she met virtually with any students who needed her during summer 2020, whether or not they were her assigned advisee. Southward said that working with students is a way to continue learning about the world.

"It's exciting to hear about things from a students' perspective," she said. "I've long said I learn more from them during most class times and certainly in one-on-one advising meetings. Students help keep me 'on trend' with what's going on in the world."

The nomination also touched on Southward's support of her colleagues and being a team player during this past year. When asked if she had any helpful tips for other campus advisers, she responded, "We have some great resources for advising on this campus and a lot of support, so take advantage of every opportunity to learn how to be a better adviser."