Meagon S. Clarkson-Guyll, an associate director in the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences Advising Center, where she has worked since fall 2012, was awarded the 2021 Leading with Brilliance Award by U of A's Academic Advising Council (AAC).

The AAC's Leading with Brilliance Award was created to award an adviser who has demonstrated leadership qualities within their department and across campus. The adviser champions initiatives on behalf of advisers, instills confidence in others and is part of building a bright future for academic advisers on campus.

Clarkson-Guyll was nominated as someone who has a strong commitment to excellence and inspires others to achieve their own levels of excellence. Her nomination highlighted how she "created innovative processes for advising in [Fulbright], but also makes other advisers shine through her modeling and coaching. … While we have to be physically apart, Meagon has made it her mission to stay connected in other ways."

In her own words, Clarkson-Guyll describes her passion for advising and working with students:

What do you like best about working with students?

The fresh perspectives students bring to our conversations is one of my favorite parts of advising. The best conversations begin with "I don't know if it's possible, but could I ...?" When students ask about the way our programs work, I'm reminded of the importance of inviting future scholars, professionals and citizens into our fields of study in ways that show not just how things are, but how they could be. 

What is something working with students has taught you about being an adviser?

Working with students has taught me adaptability as an adviser. While curriculum may be stable, its interpretation and application are individualistic. Adapting to collaborate with students is energizing and has helped me learn more about who I am within the field of advising, too. 

Any words of advice or helpful tips for other advisers on this campus?

I would encourage everyone to invest in personal and professional mentoring relationships as a mentor or a mentee, or both. Intentional conversations about your goals, your roadblocks and your questions support your own growth and deepens your professional network.