Alison Rutledge, senior academic advisor in the Division of Biochemistry, was surprised with the CAFNR Golden Apple Award Wednesday, Oct. 22. The ceremony was led by Bryan Garton, senior associate dean and director of academic programs; Michael Chapman, director of the Division of Biochemistry; Laura Friedrich, director of academic initiatives and advising; and many colleagues. Rutledge was teaching the Biochemistry Freshmen Interest Group (FIG) at the time of the ceremony; most of the students are also her advisees.
To be eligible for the Golden Apple Award, advisors should demonstrate strong mentoring relationships and a broad knowledge base, including institutional policies, referral procedures and career/life development skills. Excellence is measured using the Missouri Advisory Quality Survey dimensions: available and accessible; knowledgeable and helpful; personable and approachable; and counselor and mentor.
“Her calm, thoughtful presence brings a sense of peace and perspective to a major known for its rigor and intensity,” Garton said of Rutledge at the surprise ceremony. “She listens deeply, encourages reflection and helps students see beyond the MCAT and into their passions. She is not just guiding course selection; she is helping students shape their future.”
Rutledge advises more than 200 students, which is roughly two thirds of Biochemistry majors, and leads the department’s recruitment efforts. In addition, she has taken a strong role in the implementation of Stellic, a new degree management system, helping students stay on track for graduation.
Her advisees had a strong response rate to the Missouri Advisor Quality Survey, with nearly 87% rating her as “excellent,” and 81% recommending her to others.
In Rutledge’s nomination, Chapman and Friedrich share that advisees consistently praise her availability and responsiveness, with 85% giving an “excellent” rating for her timely replies, and 98% said she is “available when I need assistance.”
“Her commitment to being available to students and providing the time students need ensures students feel supported in their academic journey,” her nominators wrote. “Alison’s advising goes beyond course selection — she encourages autonomy, helps clarify academic goals and provides options that support both personal and professional growth.”
Chapman and Friedrich also noted that her stellar communications with prospective students and families (her PhD is in English) helps Biochemistry maintain high enrollment, while her advising helps achieve a 96% retention rates for first-year students.
“Alison is all-in for the students. It shows and has a very positive impact on our educational programs,” nominators said. “Anecdotally, although taking over only a year before, at our spring graduation, she clearly knew and cared for all of the students.”
