School of Business Administration

Beginning with the Fall 2024 term, the University of Dayton's School of Business Administration (SBA) is embarking on a transformative approach to academic advising by introducing Holistic Academic Advisors. This initiative is designed to create a mission-centric advising process that aligns with the University's Catholic Marianist identity as a University for the Common Good.

The newly implemented Holistic Academic Advisors will play a pivotal role in guiding students through their academic, social, and wellness journeys. By fostering a sense of belonging, enhancing student agency, and encouraging engagement both inside and outside the classroom, these advisors will support students in crafting educational plans that not only aim for academic excellence but also resonate with the broader mission of the University. A vital aspect of this initiative is encouraging students to identify and pursue vocational goals, aligning their academic pursuits with their personal and professional aspirations.

“Holistic academic advising is a robust form of academic advising that examines advising beyond a purely academic lens taking into account many factors influencing a student’s educational experience. This comprehensive framework allows our advisors to develop the whole person while supporting our students’ entire academic journey from matriculation to graduation.”Brad Balser, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Programs and Director of the John D. Mittelstaedt Center for Academic Advising and Business Student Success

Holistic academic advising at the SBA focuses on delivering an authentic, integrative, and relationship-rich education for every undergraduate student. This advising model uses an appreciative approach, asking strength-based questions to maximize learning and help students reach their full potential. By fostering self-efficacy and agency, Holistic Academic Advisors support students' personal and academic growth, equipping them with essential skills to succeed throughout college and beyond.

“The transformative learning experience this type of distinctive advising provides models the values our community holds so dear. Not only will holistic academic advising enable our students to persist toward college graduation, it allows them to better discern their life’s calling.” Brad Balser, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Programs and Director of the John D. Mittelstaedt Center for Academic Advising and Business Student Success

A standout feature of this new advising approach is the emphasis on stability and continuity. Each student will be assigned one Holistic Academic Advisor from the start of their academic journey until graduation. This continuity is crucial in building a trusted, personal relationship between the advisor and the student, allowing for deeper conversations that go beyond academics and consider all aspects of the student's life. This approach ensures that students are not shuffled between advisors, even if they change majors or experience academic challenges. 

“As a Holistic Academic Advisor, I feel fortunate to connect with students on a personal level. While I support their academic goals, my focus extends to building meaningful relationships with each of them. I want all students to feel seen and valued within our UD community. Beyond advising on courses and grades, I'm encouraging them to view well-being and balance as essential components of their success.  I hope this guides them to the happiest and healthiest version of themselves!” Whitney Knipfer, John D. Mittelstaedt Center for Academic Advising and Business Student Success Holistic Academic Advisor

To further enhance the advising experience, create visibility, and deepen advisor/advisee relationships, Holistic Academic Advisors will also teach both BIZ 101 – Welcome to UD and Dayton Business, and BIZ 103 – Develop Your Vocation and Career Flight Plan. BIZ 101, a required first-semester course for all business students, introduces essential resources, tools, and information for success at the SBA and the University of Dayton. BIZ 103 helps first-year students develop self-awareness, explore career options, and begin building their personal brand. Peer Assistants are present in both BIZ 101 and BIZ 103 classes, providing additional support to the Holistic Academic Advisors. By teaching these courses, advisors efficiently deliver crucial information while fostering meaningful relationships, which are vital for a student's sense of belonging and persistence. As Jenifer Gerard, Ph.D., Holistic Academic Advisor, shares, "Teaching BIZ 101 is such a great way to get to know our incoming advisees and for them to get to know each other."

The transition to holistic academic advising is supported by the expertise of Strata Information Group (SIG), a trusted consultant in higher education strategy and organizational development. In collaboration with the Director of University Advising Initiatives and other University partners, SIG has provided training to the SBA's Holistic Academic Advisors, ensuring they are well-prepared to embrace their revised roles and utilize their campus networks for help and referrals. Continuous professional development and campus collaboration will remain a priority as the Holistic Advising team grows and evolves.

“Working with the Advisors as they now play a new role as a Holistic Academic Advisor has been a wonderful experience. The advisors work with all majors and teach freshmen the Introduction to Business course. Watching them be an advisor and teacher is amazing. Building these relationships right at the beginning of the student's college career is a great way to start the year.” Chloe Fields (Marketing and Communication ‘25),  John D. Mittelstaedt Center for Academic Advising and Business Student Success Lead Peer Advisor and Peer Assistant

Holistic academic advising at the SBA goes beyond simply guiding students to graduation; it empowers them to discover their true vocation. This distinctive approach to advising embodies the core values cherished by the University of Dayton community, offering a transformative learning experience that deeply aligns with the University's mission. The SBA is excited about the positive impact this innovative vision for academic advising will have on its students, helping them thrive academically and personally.