Current Topics Event Examines Student Support and Advising

As Bryn Mawr builds its next chapter, it's considering every aspect of student support to see how we can continue to produce graduates who think deeply, act ethically, and delight in the continuous pursuit of knowledge and wisdom.  

At the first Current Topics in Higher Education event of the academic year, Dean of Student Success Richie Gebauer discussed the College’s class dean advising model, which blends the developmental support of professional advisors with the academic mentorship of faculty.  

“Research has shown that these kinds of models promote continuity and depth in advising relationships while simultaneously creating and expanding a network of support, especially for students with complex needs,” says Gebauer.

This model empowers professional advisors and faculty to work together more effectively as partners, rather than in parallel, aids in preparing students to connect core to major curriculum, and teaches students how academic, advising, and co-curricular engagement learning outcomes intersect, adds Gebauer. 

The Current Topics in Higher Education events situate key strategic questions at Bryn Mawr within research-based national dialogue on the same subjects, positioning the College as a leader and locus for speakers and ideas that extend beyond our campus. 

“We know that the future of higher education depends on learning from one another on campus as well as from excellent institutions across the country,” said President Wendy Cadge. “These events are about opening our doors to partners and peers so that together we can even further strengthen the excellent education our undergraduates and graduate students receive during their time at Bryn Mawr for their lives beyond our gates.” 

This event's partner was Machamma Quinichett, Assistant Dean of Student Success at Agnes Scott College, who discussed the school's reshaping of its approach to student advising.  

Now in its 10th year, Agnes Scott’s SUMMIT advising program has become a nationally recognized model for supporting students on their collegiate journey. While the particulars of Bryn Mawr’s advising program and SUMMIT aren’t the same, both use team-based advising to ensure students receive holistic support by drawing on the expertise of faculty, staff, and peer mentors.  

At Bryn Mawr, students are paired with an advising team that specializes in the developmental, academic, and social milestones of a specific class year, ensuring they receive guidance that is timely and relevant to their current opportunities and challenges.   

"This structure ensures that advising is both proactive and responsive, helping students access the right resources, make informed decisions, and stay on track toward graduation and post-college goals,” says Gebauer. 

The next Current Topics in Higher Education event takes place at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 21, and looks at “The Liberal Arts of the Future: Centering the Library.”