The NACADA Statement of Core Values reflects the many cultural and educational contexts in which academic advising is practiced globally. A diverse, globally represented task force in conjunction with the input of NACADA members contributed to the creation of the statement. By virtue of this process, the following represents the Core Values of the academic advising profession as a whole. These values apply to all who perform academic advising by any role, title, or position as educators at their institutions.
While nations, institutions, and students will offer unique circumstances, the Core Values provide guidance to academic advisors in their professional lives. Academic advisors are committed to the students they advise, their institutions, their professional practice, and the broader advising and educational community. There may be times when balancing all Core Values equally is not possible. In those instances, academic advisors are encouraged to reflect and engage other academic advising professionals in a dialogue to resolve any conflict to the best of their ability.
The Statement of Core Values is reviewed periodically to ensure its alignment with current professional practices, competencies, and philosophies. NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising encourages institutions to adopt the Statement of Core Values and support the work of those who provide academic advising.
Caring
Academic advisors respond to and are accessible to others in ways that challenge, support, nurture, and teach. Advisors build relationships through empathetic listening and compassion for students, colleagues, and others.
Commitment
Academic advisors value and are dedicated to excellence in all dimensions of student success. Advisors are committed to students, colleagues, institutions, and the profession through assessment, scholarly inquiry, life-long learning, and professional development.
Empowerment
Academic advisors motivate, encourage, and support students and the greater educational community to recognize their potential, meet challenges, and respect individuality.
Inclusivity
Academic advisors respect, engage, and value a supportive culture for diverse populations. Advisors strive to create and support environments that consider the needs and perspectives of students, institutions, and colleagues through openness, acceptance, and equity.
Integrity
Academic advisors act intentionally in accordance with ethical and professional behavior developed through reflective practice. Advisors value honesty, transparency, and accountability to the student, institution, and the advising profession.
Professionalism
Academic advisors act in accordance with the values of the profession of advising for the greater good of students, colleagues, institutions, and higher education in general.
Respect
Academic advisors honor the inherent value of all students. Advisors build positive relationships by understanding and appreciating students’ views and cultures, maintaining a student-centered approach and mindset, and treating students with sensitivity and fairness.
Cite the Core Values using APA style as:
NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising. (2017). NACADA core values of academic advising. Retrieved from https://www.nacada.ksu.edu/Resources/Pillars/CoreValues.aspx