Furman’s Pathways Program Wins Award for Innovative Advising

Furman University’s Pathways Program has won the 2024 Advising Innovation Award from NACADA, the global community for academic advising in higher education. This major award recognizes institutions that make a significant impact on students through advising and programs focused on personal and academic success.

“Although Pathways is relatively new, it builds on a long history at Furman of advising, mentoring and reflection. What we are doing with this two-year integrated advising program is unique in higher education and it’s affirming to have NACADA recognize what we know to be an innovative and impactful program for our students,” said Beth Pontari, Furman vice president of Academic Affairs and provost, and professor of psychology.

After a five-year pilot phase, The Pathways Program became a credit-bearing graduation requirement for first-year and sophomore students in 2022. This common experience ensures that all students are aware of campus supports and opportunities; learn about their strengths and reflect on their values; explore career and professional development opportunities; have discussions about diversity, equity and inclusion; and form strong relationships with faculty and staff advisors and peer mentors, along with their Pathways cohort.

After the first year of the program at scale, students are demonstrating benefits across a broad range of measures, including an increased sense of belonging, increased use of campus resources, and increased perception of preparation for careers after college. In addition, Furman saw a 3% increase in overall first-year to second-year retention, with a 6% increase in retention for first-generation college students (i.e., students whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year degree).

”We are thrilled that NACADA has recognized the Pathways Program with this honor”, said Michelle Horhota, associate dean for Mentoring and Advising and professor of psychology. “It confirms that our approach to supporting students is not only on the leading edge of what others are doing but also reflects the best practices that are promoted by the NACADA organization. The award is also a celebration of the incredible dedication of our Pathways advisors and peer mentors who are the reason this program has such an impact on our students. We couldn’t be more proud to receive this award.”

Furman University and the Pathways Program will be formally honored at the Global Awards Ceremony held on October 28 at NACADA’s Annual Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.