Advisor Jessica Chung Honored with Outstanding First-Generation Professional Award

Jessica Chung, an academic advisor in the College of Information Science, has been recognized with the Outstanding First-Generation Professional Award, one of the University of Arizona’s 2025 Student Success Awards. This honor celebrates faculty and staff who identify as first-generation professionals and actively support first-gen students in their academic journeys.

Chung, who joined the college in April 2024, was nominated by Director of Undergraduate Advising Sean Kramer-Lazar for her deep commitment to student success and her ability to foster an inclusive, supportive environment for students navigating the complexities of higher education. “Jessica Chung shattered barriers as a first-generation student who earned multiple degrees, and since joining the college has helped transformed how we champion student success,” he says. “Her unwavering dedication to amplifying student voices and creating pathways to achievement made her an inspiring choice for the Outstanding First-Generation Professional Award, which celebrates her remarkable impact on our college community and the broader university.”

A Passion for Supporting Students

As a first-generation college graduate herself, Chung understands firsthand the challenges students may face. Though she didn’t initially recognize her first-generation status, she later realized how it shaped her academic experience. “I was a first-generation student who didn’t realize I was a first-generation student, despite receiving training in my professional career to support them,” she says. “In hindsight, I now understand how many of the struggles I had in college and graduate school were due to the fact that I was a first-gen student. As a first-gen professional, I strive to be a reliable resource for all students who have questions or concerns—or want someone to celebrate their achievements with them!”

Since joining the College of Information Science, Chung has quickly become a vital part of the advising team, taking on a full caseload of students and going above and beyond to support their success. She has also been instrumental in launching the D2L Student Resource Hub, a new platform designed to help first-year students navigate their transition to college.

In addition to her advising role, Chung teaches UNIV 101, a first-year seminar designed to equip students with essential academic and personal skills. She actively pursues professional development, exploring data-driven advising strategies and collaborating with campus partners to enhance student experiences.

A Student-Centered Approach

Chung is committed to supporting students at every stage of their academic journey, offering the guidance and resources they need to thrive. “I treat each student with respect and kindness, meeting them where they are, while also seeking ways to help raise them to meet institutional expectations,” she says.

With a background in academic advising at the University of Chicago and a personal passion for music, food and gaming, Chung brings both expertise and enthusiasm to her role at the College of Information Science. Whether helping students set SMART goals, explore career pathways or celebrate milestones, she remains steadfast in her mission to empower every student to succeed.

“Jessica Chung’s outstanding achievements have not gone unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for her contributions,” says Christine Salvesen, U of A chief retention officer and associate vice provost for student success.

Honoring First-Generation Champions

The Outstanding First-Generation Professional Award is part of the university’s broader commitment to student success, recognizing individuals who make a meaningful difference in the lives of first-generation students.

Chung and other Student Success Award recipients will be honored at the Student Success and Retention Innovation Campus Partners Thank You event on September 18, 2025.
   

For more about Jessica Chung and her role in the College of Information Science, visit her advisor profile.