Mark Suazo, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM

Past Involvement in NACADA:

Years in NACADA: 3 years
Regional Activities/Offices Held, including accomplishments achieved while in office:
National Offices Held and Accomplishments Achieved While in Office:
Committee Activities and Accomplishments:
Commission/Interest Group Activities and Accomplishments: Member, Technology in Advising Commission and Advising Students with Disabilities Commission. Member, Distance Education Advising Interest Group and Assessment of Advising Interest Group. Served as Region 10 Liaison to Technology in Advising Commission.
Other:

As Program Coordinator for the primary undergraduate advisement unit at UNM, I understand the challenges facing Academic Advisors-ever increasing work loads, the need to stay current with complex academic criteria, and a lack of understanding about our profession. While I don't feel that technology can (or should) ever replace personal interaction with students, I believe it does play a significant role in two areas. First, software-based tools (such as those I have designed) can free advisors from mundane administrative tasks, increasing the time they have available for students. Second, the students of today (both on campus and in distance education programs) expect and are accustomed to technologically-based interaction. Creative use of electronic and web-based solutions can enhance the quality of our interactions with them.

My philosophy when working with students is "people don't care what you know until they know that you care." Technology is a powerful tool that can be used to show we care. It helps us be more effective, more informed, and ultimately, enhances the image of our profession. As Chairperson, I would champion the creation of standards and technologically-based solutions for academic advisors.