Finding each student’s fit

Mindy Cooper

2024 Award for Academic Advising Impact

Malinda (Mindy) Cooper admits she's perhaps not the smiliest professional on campus. 

"I can seem scary," the academic advisor said with a chuckle. "I keep students accountable. They often tell me the tough life lessons I help them learn are the most valuable." 

That type of tough love has earned her the respect and appreciation of thousands of Iowa State students -- and the 2024 Award for Academic Advising Impact, a recognition of outstanding performance over an extended time period.

Cooper has worked in student support roles at Iowa State since she graduated from the university in 2000. She was a learning specialist with the athletics department for six years, then joined the College of Design, where she currently assists landscape architecture students and the college's "undecided" group of students.

In that time, Cooper has racked up accolades and legions of student and alumni fans. 

"What distinguishes Mindy is not only her commitment but also her readiness to assist students at any time," wrote one of her student nominators, Delaney Giles, a senior in landscape architecture. "Mindy's insights, rooted in her extensive knowledge in professional design environments, have proven instrumental in helping students navigate complex academic challenges and make informed decisions. Whether it's through a meeting, quick email or even just a chat in the hall, I can rely on Mindy to be there with answers when I need them most." 

Currently, Cooper is assigned 220 advisees. However, in recent years she's advised as many as 450 students concurrently. In addition to her advising responsibilities, she coordinates the college's orientation programs and three learning communities, teaches six classes with more than 600 students, supervises and trains 17 peer mentors and serves on several university committees.

A very long extra mile

How does she do it all? Her colleagues say she puts in extra effort, and hours, to build connections with her students. 

"Many nights, as I leave the building at the end of the day, I have walked by Mindy's office where she is still meeting in-person with students well after 5 p.m.," wrote nominator Andrea Quam, associate professor of graphic design. "She delivers on her statement of being there for the students. I have heard many students express both their appreciation and gratitude for Mindy's efficiency and knowledge, as well as willingness to go the 'extra mile' for them."

Cooper said it's important to help each student achieve their own definition of success.

"Caring is about building relationships and being accessible. I strive to get to know my students beyond the superficial, 'How are you doing?'" Cooper said. "I want each student to feel that I offer a safe and welcoming space for them to share their needs, joys, hopes and worries.

"I believe there is an almost endless number of acceptable solutions, and I like to go through all of them to find the best fit for each student," she added.

She has, however, identified one consistent predictor of student success. 

"Being open to new experiences and being open to failure is so important," Cooper said. "Students who can take feedback and criticism and understand, 'what I produce is not me' are more likely to succeed." 

In addition to this fall's award, Cooper has received the College of Design's Academic Advising Award (2022, 2009), a university Innovation and Exceptional Advising during COVID award (2022) and ISU Learning Communities' Outstanding Service Award (2021, 2016 and 2011).

When she departs the Design Building, Cooper can be spotted most frequently at Hilton Coliseum or Jack Trice Stadium, cheering on the student athletes she advises -- with a smile.