BROOKINGS – Natalie Hoyes, professional advisor in the Department of Animal Science at South Dakota State University, received the 2021 Walt McCarty Advising Award in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. 

“The Walt McCarty Advising Award is a huge honor to even be nominated for, much less receive,” said Hoyes. “I always strive for excellence with doing the best that I can for my students and help set them up for success. I am so grateful to work with amazing students in the Department of Animal Science who make my job very enjoyable.” 

The Walt McCarty Advising Award is presented to an academic advisor to promote the importance of and stimulate excellence in academic advising and provide recognition to outstanding advisors of undergraduates in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. 

“Natalie is an outstanding adviser who cares about her students and enables them to succeed through sound advising, plan of study management and mentorship,” said Vikram Mistry, Interim Associate Dean of Academic Programs. “She adds immense value to the student experience as they work toward academic and personal goals. Natalie makes her department and the university a warm and welcoming place for students and truly captures the intent of this award.”

Hoyes advises approximately 300 students in the Department of Animal Science every year. She provides mentorship to students within the department by helping them develop academic and career plans throughout their time at SDSU. She also helps students navigate campus resources including the SDSU Student Health and Counseling Center, Financial Aid Office, and more. Hoyes also supports the department by assisting the departmental clubs, judging teams, and other experiential learning opportunities. 

In 2020, Hoyes led the development of the Animal Science Student Ambassador Program. She developed the responsibilities, qualifications, and other guiding documents for the program, and led the application and selection process for the first two years. Hoyes works with the Animal Science Student Ambassadors to coordinate prospective student visits and mentor freshman students in the department. 

“Natalie demonstrates excellence and professionalism in all her activities and interactions with students, colleagues, faculty, staff and visitors,” said Rosie Nold, assistant department head and professor in the Department of Animal Science. “Her commitment to excellence manifests itself through her passion for working with students. She has been a leader and role model in developing a culture of support and achievement for and among students.”