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Laura Plowman, professional academic advisor in the South Dakota State University School of American and Global Studies, is the 2024 recipient of the South Dakota Higher Education Association Marcus Boesen Memorial Award. 

According to the association’s website, the Marcus Boesen Memorial Award “distinguishes new professionals who have shown outstanding contributions to the overall development of students, to their educational institution and to the South Dakota Higher Education Association and/or to the higher education profession.” 

Nominees must be within their first four years of the profession. 

Plowman has been a professional academic advisor at ������Ƶ since 2022. Before that, she taught at Brookings High School in the social studies department. 

“I feel so lucky to be in this position, as it combines multiple things I care about: education, the ability to continue working with students and a chance to support programs and disciplines I really value and believe in,” Plowman said. “And as a great bonus, the people are terrific. I so appreciate the students and colleagues I get to work with in our school, the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences and across campus.” 

According to Jessica Lewis, advising and retention coordinator for the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, “Faculty have noted how it is a privilege to work with her on issues related to students, and they know how much she cares for the students.” 

Lewis continued, “One member of the faculty noted, ‘Honestly, in my view, we have the best student advisor at ������Ƶ and a wonderful colleague! I wholeheartedly support Laura’s nomination.’” 

Plowman said reading such complimentary summary of her work was touching. 

“This isn't recognition for individual accomplishment,” Plowman explained. “I can't do my work without the collaborative effort and support of my colleagues, and I can't be an advisor without our students.”