iSchool Ph.D. Candidate Willie L. Smith, Jr. presented at the 2023 National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) Conference, which took place in Orlando, FL from October 4th to October 7th.

“NACADA promotes and supports quality academic advising in institutions of higher education to enhance the educational development of students. NACADA provides a forum for discussion, debate, and the exchange of ideas pertaining to academic advising through numerous activities and publications” (NACADA).

Smith’s NACADA presentation “How Information Poverty and Gatekeeping May Play a Role in the Achievement Gap in Higher Education for Black Men” goes hand-in-hand with his Ph.D. studies that focuses on a concerning trend: Black Men have been graduating at a lower rate compared to individuals of any other race of gender. A phenomenon that has persisted since the 1970s and has shown a consistent decline over four decades.

When CCI asked Smith about how NACADA and similar conferences help with his Ph.D. studies he replied, “I think the biggest thing is being present. I believe that one of the most important aspects of being a Ph.D. candidate is having the opportunity to engage in conferences and presenting. Whenever you have the opportunity to present, seize it. It serves as invaluable practice for conveying and expressing your research and concepts, and it also allows you to receive feedback from your peers in academia.”

Congratulations, Willie!