University of Manitoba Advising Excellence Award

Student Affairs is excited to announce the opening of applications for the Wendy McLean Advising Excellence Award, aimed at recognizing the outstanding achievements of academic advising staff at UM. This prestigious award highlights the dedication and innovation of advisors who play a crucial role in the academic and personal success of students. 

This award was set up by Wendy McLean (former First Year Centre Academic Advisor) and recognizes exceptional advising with an annual award of $500 donated to the UM Food Bank in the recipient’s name.  All details are available here: Wendy Mclean Advising Excellence Award.  Deadline for submission for 2025 is December 23, 2025, with the recipient announced in February 2026. 

Nomination Process

Nominees must be current UM staff members in continuing roles which provide direct support of students through academic or student advising, within academic or support units.  Any member of the UM community can nominate an advisor for this award by submitting the following:

• a completed nomination form
• a letter of support detailing the nominee's contributions and demonstrating how they meet the award's eligibility criteria (1 page maximum)
• at least two letters of recommendation from staff and/or learners who can attest to the nominee's contributions and impact as a mentor, coach, or advisor.

Criteria for Consideration

The selection committee will evaluate nominees based on several key criteria, including:

• Improvements to processes and procedures
• Advancements in collaboration and/or teamwork excellence
• Notable creativity and innovation in advising techniques
• Outstanding efforts with individual students
• High levels of student engagement resulting from innovative practices
• Creative programming for advising students
• Productive use of university or community resources

Student Affairs looks forward to celebrating the exceptional work of UM advisors and supporting their impact on students through this award.  We are so grateful to Wendy as the establishment of this award allows us to both celebrate excellence in advising and provides a generous gift to the students that we, as advisors serve.  Please consider nominating a colleague! 

I’m happy to answer any questions! 

Ali Wood-Warren (she)      

Director Student Transitions and Success Centre

205 Tier Building

431 275-0984

umanitoba.ca/firstyear

Student Affairs – Leaders in cultivating exceptional student experiences!

I am grateful to the Anishinaabeg, Ininewuk, Anisininewuk, Dakota Oyate, Dene, and the Red River Metis peoples, on whose home lands I live.  I am also grateful to the people of Shoal Lake 40  in Treaty 3 territory, whose water I drink.