Advising Awards

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Excellence in Academic Advising Awards

The Excellence in Academic Advising Awards, newly established by the Advising Programs Office (APO), recognize individuals in the pre-concentration academic advising network who have contributed to excellence in academic advising, through their critical academic support and guidance of undergraduate students. Awards are given to eight individuals, in the following categories: two First-Year Advisors, two Sophomore Advisors, and four Peer Advising Fellows.  

We recognize the many outstanding contributions of numerous dedicated concentration advisors, faculty, and departmental staff that positively impact academic advising; however, this award focuses on the pre-concentration advising network. In addition, due to their close work with the APO, please note that Eagle PAFs are not eligible for this award.

Selection Criteria

Recognizing that all advisors help students set goals, make academic plans, and establish foundation for reflective decision making, we seek to recognize advisors who have excelled in the following ways:  

  • Advisors who have gone above and beyond in helping students explore, plan, reflect, and navigate academics at Harvard College.  
  • Advisors who demonstrate dedication and mastery of the advising process, including active listening, asking questions, referrals to resources, and familiarity with academic policies, deadlines, procedures, and curriculum. 

Congratulations to our 2023 Recipients

The 2023 recipients of the Excellence in Academic Advising Awards were honored with a celebratory luncheon on May 2, 2023.

Star Family Prizes for Excellence in Advising (2012-2022)

The Star Family Prizes for Excellence in Advising were established by James A. Star, AB 1983, to recognize and reward individuals who contribute to the College through their exemplary intellectual and personal guidance of undergraduate students.

Prizes were awarded each year to twelve advisors:

  • 3 First-year Advisors:  Proctors and non-resident Board of First-year Advisors
  • 3 Sophomore Advisors: House tutors who serve in this advising role
  • 3 Concentration Advisors:  Students’ assigned departmental advisors (faculty or non-faculty are eligible)
  • 3 Faculty Advisors: Thesis advisors or other formal/informal departmental advisors (only faculty are eligible)

Past Star Prize Publications

Browse through our past publications highlighting Star Prize Nominees and Recipients over the history of the award: