Excellence in Advising is bestowed by the Office of the Chancellor and the Teaching Council of the Faculty Senate to honor outstanding work in advising.
David Anderson
David Anderson is a professor and head of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences in the College of Veterinary Medicine. Despite a demanding schedule of administrative, service, and research responsibilities, he is known for devoting time and presence to the graduate students he advises, ensuring that they have the resources and guidance they need to own their education. His drive to keep learning keeps him involved in student projects and makes him an outstanding role model.
What does being a Volunteer mean to you?
Being a Tennessee Volunteer means embracing challenges and exploring new frontiers through collaboration and teamwork. A Volunteer is positive in spirit and generous with time and effort. A Volunteer endeavors to help others so that their accomplishments are greater than the sum of the parts. No effort is too small to raise everyone up to achieve great things together as a team.
Alexandra Brewer
Alexandra Brewer joined the advising team in the College of Arts and Sciences as a graduate assistant in 2014. While she was on an academic path at the time, she discovered that she loves working one-on-one with students in an advising setting. She works primarily with students in political science and economics, getting to know their background and interests, connecting them with new opportunities, and helping them make sound educational decisions. She also volunteers with student support initiatives outside the advising office.
What does this award mean to you?
Throughout my professional life, I’ve tried to honor my strengths and interests—even if it meant letting go of other ambitions and plans. Being recognized for this award is validation that I am on the right path.
Sally Hunter
Sally Hunter is a clinical assistant professor who teaches classes and coordinates undergraduate advising for the Department of Child and Family Studies. She is passionate about supporting students during their journey at the University of Tennessee and beyond. She is known for her availability and resourcefulness as she guides students in defining and reaching their academic goals.
What does this award mean to you?
I am honored to have been nominated for this award by one of my students. It is wonderful to be recognized as someone who supports students in an advising capacity. I love mentoring and advising these young people; I am so proud of the things many of our students achieve during their time at UT and beyond.
Tammy Renalds
Tammy Renalds is an academic advisor and assistant director of undergraduate advising in the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. Students praise her caring, tenacity, and ability to help those who are struggling find a path to success. With both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from UT, she enjoys working “in a place that feels like home.”
What does being a Volunteer mean to you?
I first consider being a Volunteer in a true sense of the word: stepping up to help when needed. I also think being a Volunteer means representing the university well and demonstrating a commitment to promoting mattering and belonging among all students, faculty, and staff. I love the idea of “Vol Is a Verb” and the action needed to support it.