College of Natural Resources and Environment advisor earns university award for advising

Melissa Cumbia ’12, an academic advisor in Virginia Tech’s College of Natural Resources and Environment, was honored with the University Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Academic Advising. Cumbia’s unwavering commitment to student success has profoundly impacted students navigating their academic and career journeys.

For seven years, Cumbia has served as a cornerstone of the college’s advising and career center, ensuring students receive the guidance and support needed to excel. Known for her compassionate approach, Cumbia emphasizes active listening, empathy, and clear communication - qualities students say make her an indispensable mentor.

“I feel deeply grateful for my students, who've allowed me to be a part of their college journey, and my colleagues, who've invited me to continuously collaborate toward improvements,” Cumbia said. "They’ve made my work rewarding and worthwhile. I’m incredibly honored by this recognition, and it encourages me to continue to support students and programs to the best of my ability.”

Cumbia’s impact extends beyond one-on-one advising sessions. She pioneered a six-step outreach plan beginning during a student’s junior year to ensure they remain on track for graduation. The plan was so effective it was adopted by the entire advising unit. She also developed specialized four-year degree plans, allowing students to incorporate study abroad experiences or pursue accelerated master’s programs.

“Melissa’s advising and mentoring has a tremendous impact on her advisees,” said Keith Goyne, associate dean in the College of Natural Resources and Environment. “She cares very deeply about the success of students and their personal well-being, and she goes above and beyond to help them. I have also been very impressed with her willingness to share her advising techniques and approaches with national audiences through publications and presentations. This, in turn, expands Melissa’s positive impact on student advising beyond the college and Virginia Tech.”

Her efforts have directly translated into student engagement. In the 2023-24 academic year, she conducted 1,266 advising appointments—accounting for 30 percent of all appointments within the college. In fall 2024 alone, she met with 91 percent of her assigned students, a striking number considering meetings are not mandatory.

Cumbia also champions student recognition. She spearheaded the creation of the college’s Persistence and Commitment to Success Award, which honors students who have demonstrated resilience despite academic or personal challenges. The inaugural recipient, senior Kamber Lee, credits Cumbia with helping her overcome multiple failed attempts at a chemistry course that nearly derailed her academic goals.

“Melissa's support and guidance have made a lasting impact on our students, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate their academic journey with confidence,” said Stephanie Hart, Executive Director of the Advising and Career Center in the college. “Through her proactive outreach and extensive expertise, she creates a supportive advising partnership, helping students make informed decisions about their education and future. Many students express that her compassionate approach has been instrumental in their success, often saying, "I don't know how I would have done it without her."

Cumbia’s influence reaches beyond Virginia Tech. She actively contributes to NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising, writing research briefs, presenting at national conferences, and mentoring fellow Virginia Tech advisors.