Melissa Manning, Director of Advising at the University of Connecticut’s Hartford campus, has been named the recipient of the 2026 NACADA Region 1 Advising Excellence Award – Advisor, presented by NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising.
The Regional Advising Excellence Award recognizes outstanding academic advising and celebrates a professional staff advisor whose work demonstrates a significant commitment to students and excellence in the advising profession.
Melissa will be recognized at the NACADA Region 1 Conference in Montreal, Canada in April 2027.
Melissa serves as Director of Advising at the UConn Hartford campus and has supported undergraduates at the University for more than a decade. She oversees advising operations, supports professional advisors and graduate students, leads orientation advising and registration efforts, and collaborates across programs and with campus leadership to strengthen the student experience. Her work is grounded in a commitment to building meaningful connections with students, removing barriers to academic success, and developing effective and student-centered advising practices.
In 2026, Manning was also named a co-recipient of UConn’s Outstanding Undergraduate Professional Staff Advisor Award, which recognizes the extraordinary contributions by undergraduate academic advisors to students’ academic success and development. In recognizing Melissa, UConn highlighted her empathy and determination, collaborative approach, leadership of Orientation efforts and advising events, and commitment to problem-solving.
Providing holistic, culturally competent advising is a priority of UConn’s 2024-2034 Strategic Plan. “We are honored to have one of UConn’s advising leaders and mentors recognized for their work by our national advising organization,” said Erin Ciarimboli, UConn’s Director of Undergraduate Advising. “Melissa’s recognition is long overdue and highlights the critical role that UConn’s advisors play every day in supporting student success.”
“Melissa is an excellent advisor. Although her professional responsibilities have expanded significantly, she still works very closely with students and staff to answer specific questions and work through challenging situations.” Christine Mosman, Associate Director, Office of Student Services, UConn Hartford.
Melissa’s advising philosophy reflects the importance she places on ensuring students feel a sense of support and belonging at UConn. “Students still want and need connection. Students want to feel heard, understood, and supported,” Melissa said. “I lead with genuine care and authenticity, and I want them to trust that I support them. I strive to create an environment where students feel empowered, supported, and confident in navigating higher education.”
About NACADA
Founded in 1979, NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising is the leading professional association dedicated to enhancing the field of academic advising in higher education. With a membership exceeding 14,000 individuals, NACADA serves a global community of advisors, faculty, administrators, and student support professionals. The association offers comprehensive professional development, cutting-edge research, consulting services, and a collaborative network, all aimed at promoting student success and institutional effectiveness. By championing the pivotal role of academic advising, NACADA empowers its members to elevate advising practices and enhance the student experience. Learn more at nacada.ksu.edu.
