The Director of Academic Advising provides leadership, supervision and development of academic advising activities at Southeast. They supervise the professional advising team and closely collaborates with faculty academic advisors and Academic Affairs to support all aspects of student-centered undergraduate advising from first-time enrollment to degree completion. The Director is also responsible for fostering outcome driven efforts in academic advising that support student access, persistence and degree completion. 

The position reports to the Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success, Dr. Debbie Below. 

“Amanda is a highly qualified and experienced advisor who has established positive working relationships with faculty and staff throughout the University,” Below said. “Her knowledge of the University’s academic programs and her genuine care for student well-being and success will serve her well in this new leadership role. Amanda is proud of her roots as a Southeast alumna and is eager to assist students to and through their educational journey.” 

Eller brings more than 20 years of experience in academic advising roles, with 14 years of supervision experience in academic advising settings. She began her career at Southeast in 2001 as an academic advisor for the then School of Polytechnic Studies. She has also served as coordinator of special program and services. She became Assistant Director of Academic Advising in 2015. She earned a Bachelor of Science in industrial technology: visual communications in 2000, and a Master of Science in industrial management in 2004, both from Southeast. 

“I am excited to transition to the Director role and continue to work with such an amazing team of hard working, student-centered advisors,” Eller said.

Eller is becoming director after Carol Heisserer, who is retiring after 32 years at Southeast. 

“I know I am stepping into some big shoes to fill, and I cannot thank Carol Heisserer enough for her leadership and guidance for advising over the years. She has an amazing amount of university knowledge and experience she is leaving with, so I hope to continue her legacy,” Eller said. “I look forward to continued collaboration with offices and units across campus to help support and retain our students, as well as strengthening advising across campus through the Master Advisor Program.”