| Presentation Proposal - NACADA Annual Conference |
| Presentation Info and Handouts |
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Code=145
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Conference Year:
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2026
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Session #:
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P05(PRE-3)
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Title:
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The Master Advisor Blueprint: Developing a High-Impact Advisor Training Program |
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Lead Presenter:
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Ross Hawkins |
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Date:
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October 04, 2026 Time: 8:00 am - 11:00 am |
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Room:
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Paseo - Omni |
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Abstract:
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For over 25 years, our institution's Master Advisor Training Program has served as a model for building a sustainable, institution-wide advisor training and development system, earning recognition from NACADA through the Outstanding Institutional Advising Program Award. Founded in 1995 and grounded in NACADA's Conceptual, Informational, and Relational Core Competencies, the program has trained thousands of faculty and professional advisors, fostered strong cross-campus collaboration, and contributed directly to improved student success, greater consistency in advising practices, and increased advisor confidence.
This pre-conference workshop will provide participants with a practical, replicable framework for developing or revitalizing their own advisor training program. Using our handbook, curriculum, evaluation processes, and workshop schedule as a case study, we will explore:
- Structuring a multi-day foundational certification program aligned with NACADA competencies
- Developing a shared advising philosophy across decentralized campus units
- Partnering with units such as Financial Aid, the Registrar, Career Services, Title IX, and Student Success offices
- Teaching complex informational competencies effectively
- Embedding relational skill development and inclusive advising practices
- Building ongoing professional development (forums, continuing certification, and community building)
-Securing administrative buy-in and sustaining faculty engagement over decades
Participants will leave with templates, sample agendas, planning guides, and strategies they can adapt immediately for their campuses. This workshop is ideal for both two-year and four-year institutions seeking to launch or strengthen advisor development initiatives that are sustainable, competency-based, and culturally embedded.
Learning Outcomes
After participating in this workshop, attendees will be able to:
1. Design a multi-day advisor training program aligned with NACADA's Conceptual, Informational, and Relational Competencies.
2. Identify core content areas and campus partners essential for a sustainable, institution wide training initiative.
3. Incorporate inclusive advising, relational skill building, and ethical decision making pedagogy into training curricula.
4. Develop ongoing professional development structures, including certification renewal, advising forums, and community-building practices.
5. Create a 30-60-90 day action plan for implementing or revising an advisor development program at their institution. |
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Handouts
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Note: Handouts (if offered for this session) are accessible via the conference app. |
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