Kathleen Shea Smith
	Florida State University Tallahassee, FL
	Platform Statement: Highlight your previous involvement within this unit that will help you in leading this unit.  What roles have you played within this particular unit as a member thus far?

I have been an engaged member of the Undecided and Exploratory Students Commission since taking on the role of overseeing academic advising services for the exploratory student population at Florida State University. The NACADA members who comprise this group are extremely supportive of one another and communicate regularly through the active listserv. I follow the issues closely and contribute information or advice when I feel I can make a valid contribution. It would be my honor to lead efforts in continuing this communication and collectively address the many issues and challenges that confront advisors of this unique student population.

What do you believe are the most important goals and initiatives for this unit in meeting the strategic plan for both the unit and the Association? 

As a unit I think it is very important for CUES to stay committed to the goals that have been previously established within the framework of NACADA's strategic plan. It is essential that we continue to address issues facing the undecided/exploratory population and collectively voice the implications of institutional, regional and national trends. I believe that we must remain up to date on the empirical work of Virginia Gordon and other researchers committed to the undecided population, and that we also implement and evaluate the recommendations suggested by their findings. Supporting and encouraging our commission members to present at the state, regional and national level will lead to greater visibility on CUES issues and provide a forum for practitioners to confront problems and share solutions. Finally, we must stay connected through the active listserv and use this tool as the method to share our experiences and work towards our common goals.

Why are you interested in serving in this leadership position or what influenced you to run for this leadership position? 

I am committed to the field of academic advising as my professional calling and serving the undecided population is my true passion. I believe our work is a vital piece in the student success puzzle and the effects of our work are far reaching. Often times we are the first people who students trust enough to reveal their inner journeys. Our reactions and guidance often determine the outcome of a student’s academic, professional, and personal direction. This Commission nomination is a privilege and brings with it a great deal of responsibility.

With ten years of advising experience and three years of administrative experience, I believe I am ready for this NACADA leadership role. As a candidate for the Commission Chair, I will commit my time and energy to leading CUES members towards a greater understanding of the undecided issues and collectively addressing the associated challenges.

Provide any additional comments or information (either personal or leadership-related) that you want potential voters to know about you that is not covered elsewhere in your platform information. 

The only additional information I would like to reiterate is my commitment to the field of academic advising and more specifically the subgroup of undecided advisors/students. I have worked in the field since 1989, completed my doctoral work in 2004, and wrote my dissertation on the relationship between academic advising and student retention. I have lived and studied these issues and plan to continue throughout my career. I am equally committed to both practice and research, and believe this blend of interests would benefit the Undecided and Exploratory Commission members.

Past Involvement in NACADA:

Years in NACADA: 8 years

National Offices Held and Accomplishments Achieved While in Office:

Regional Activities/Offices Held, including accomplishments achieved while in office:

• Program Chair, 2007 NACADA Region IV Conference
• Presenter, 2006 NACADA Region IV Conference, “The Truth Behind the Major Selection Process: Students Reflect on Their Journeys”
• Presenter, 2005 NACADA Region IV Conference, “How to Develop and Implement an On-Line Assessment Tool in Seven Easy Steps”

Committee/Task Force/Advisory Board Activities and Accomplishments:

• Member, NACADA Research Committee, 2004-present

Commission/Interest Group Activities and Accomplishments:

• Current member — Undecided and Exploratory Students Commission (2004-present); Advising Administration (2004-present); Assessment of Advising Commission; Theory & Philosophy of Advising Commission

Other:

• Assistant Director, Advising First Center for Exploratory Students, Florida State University, 2004-Present
• Academic Advisor, Advising First, Florida State University, 2002-2004
• Preconference Presenter, 2006 NACADA Annual Conference, "Conducting Academic Advising Research: A Primer”
• Presenter, 2005 NACADA Annual Conference, “The Truth Behind the Major Selection Process: Students Reflect on Their Journeys” (CUES sponsored presentation)
• Recipient, 2004 NACADA Student Research Award, Doctoral Degree Level
• Presenter, 2003 NACADA Annual Conference, "The Power of Academic Advising in Campus Retention Efforts"