Advisors in the Spotlight: Meet Matthew Wood
NOVA’s academic advisors are the college’s secret weapon. They work on the front lines to ensure our students are prepared to succeed, helping them make their plan and achieve their goals. We want to recognize their hard work and thank them for all they do to make sure our students cross the finish line. We don’t want to keep them hidden, though, so we plan to feature these tireless workers so you can get to know them.
The “Advisors in the Spotlight” series is designed to celebrate the talented team behind our college’s impressive growth in enrollment, retention and completion initiatives. Through this series, we aim to showcase their hard work and commitment. Join us in acknowledging the incredible efforts of our academic advisors who make a significant impact on our community every day.
Meet Matthew Wood
Position: advisor, Annandale Campus
Pathway: education and social sciences
Started at NOVA: April 2023
Background
Matthew Wood has a diverse and comprehensive educational background, which provides well-rounded and informed guidance to students. Their educational background includes an associate in arts and a bachelor of arts in psychology with a minor in sociology, and a master of education in learning & teaching, specializing in instructional technology. Matthew is credentialed as a National Certified Counselor and has completed the coursework and comprehensive exams for a doctorate in English, focusing on technology and cultural studies. Overall, this extensive education equips them to help students navigate their educational journeys with confidence and clarity. Matthew has 15 years of experience in higher education, having served in various roles such as tutor, orientation leader, advisor, counselor and instructor.
Campus/College Involvement
Matthew’s dedication to student success is evident through their numerous accolades, including an Excellence in Service to Students Award and the Applauding Classified Employees (ACE) awards for employee of distinction for team player and employee of distinction for leadership and Innovation. Additionally, Matthew serves as the NOVA classified staff representative to the VCCS Chancellor.
Advising Philosophy
Matthew aspires to give clear and concise recommendations and to clearly articulate restrictions to students based on policy, procedure and professional experience, yet also provides open opportunities, available options and support for the student’s ability to self-determine their own direction.
Matthew believes that advising is important because students bring their whole selves to NOVA, encompassing personal, professional, and academic goals. Matthew maintains that each student deserves educational access and the unwavering support of public servants in pursuing their dreams, and advisors are the supportive and guiding practitioners who embody the positive and productive capacities of state and federal government, helping to improve communities and their constituents. Matthew Wood is committed to empowering students and helping them navigate their educational journeys with confidence and clarity.
—Dr. Kimberly U. Wright, director of academic planning & advising, Student Affairs
