NATCHITOCHES – Dr. Begona Perez-Mira was named recipient of the 2023 Faculty Excellence in Academic Advising at Northwestern State University. The award, presented by the university’s office of Academic Engagement & Student Success, recognizes faculty for their mentorship and commitment to student success. Criteria include knowledge, helpfulness and accessibility.
Perez-Mira is a professor in NSU’s Computer Information Systems program.
“I try very hard to actively listen to the academic needs of the students,” Perez-Mira said. “Advising is a very important part of what we do as members of the NSU community because it is our chance to help students on a one-to-one basis. Not one student is the same as another. I try to take the time to understand their personal situation and always present the options clearly and honestly. I genuinely care about the students so my ultimate goal is to try to help them as much as I can.
Perez-Mira arrived at NSU from the University of Valencia, Spain, in January 1997 in pursuit of a master’s degree in English. She has been a full-time faculty member since 2009. She teaches web development, hardware and software troubleshooting and systems analysis and development.
Steve Hicks, director of Academic Engagement & Student Success, said Perez-Mira is student centered and goes above and beyond to assist her students.
“She has been described to me as ‘outgoing, ready to drop whatever she is doing to assist and one who will stop at nothing to help a student succeed,’” Hicks said. “She is upbeat with a chipper attitude, reassuring and empathetic. She has even been helpful in the formation of the Archery Club, a registered student organization unrelated to her discipline, and serves their faculty sponsor.”
Hicks said the work that all faculty do in academic advising is important.
“Making connections with students is of high importance and I’d like to thank all the faculty for all they do as mentors and advisors in their daily duties. Their work is valued and appreciated,” he said.
