March 1, 2021

PACADA honors two academic advisors for outstanding work

 

The Purdue Academic Advising Association (PACADA) has recognized two academic advisors for their exceptional care and dedication to student success.

PACADA honored Andrew Oppy, recipient of the Outstanding Academic Advisor award, and Jodie Thomas, recipient of the Outstanding New Professional award, during a virtual ceremony on Feb. 11. On. Feb. 24, PACADA members also cheered on Oppy and Thomas during a drive-by celebration in the Ross-Ade Stadium parking lot.

The names of past award winners are listed on plaques in Schleman Hall.

Andrew Oppy and family Andrew Oppy, recipient of PACADA's Outstanding Academic Advisor award, and family at the drive-by awards celebration. (Purdue University photo/John Underwood) Download image

Outstanding Academic Advisor: Andrew Oppy

Oppy was chosen for this award because he challenges his students to be the best versions of themselves and gives them confidence to do so. According to his nominators, he provides a safe and inclusive environment, and is committed, unselfish and humble.

Oppy takes the time to learn about his students’ passions beyond academics. One student nominator said, “He listens to me, asks questions and gives advice that allows me to make decisions for myself. I am taught the importance of weighing my decisions, getting perspectives from people I trust and taking time to involve myself in areas that will be grounding and impactful.

Other nominators called Oppy trustworthy, encouraging, honest and kind. “Andy’s energy, dedication and enthusiasm have brought tremendous value to our students, faculty, administrators, clubs and employers,” a colleague said. “Simply said, he is an outstanding man.

Jodie Thomas and family Jodie Thomas, recipient of the Outstanding New Professional award, and family at the drive-by awards celebration. (Purdue University photo/John Underwood) Download image

Outstanding New Professional: Jodie Thomas

Thomas was chosen for this award because her nominators say she excels at communication and teamwork. She has gone above and beyond to adapt to the changing needs of her students, from academic troubles to homesickness and COVID-19 concerns.

Thomas’s nominators said they value her as a mentor and a welcoming face on campus. “From the welcoming door she had throughout my freshman year to the friendly emails out of the blue asking how I was doing, she has proven to be someone who not only cares for but invests in me,” one student nominator said.

Thomas is involved both in and outside her department, including in diversity recruitment, writing Student Success stories and serving on PACADA committees. She also serves as a faculty fellow.

Both advisors represent the College of Agriculture and are from the Department of Agricultural Economics. This is the first time that both award recipients in a year are members of the same college.

Writer: Kelsey Lefever, kschnied@purdue.edu


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