Gary J. Hunter Excellence in Mentoring Award

Shirley S. Farrar, University Advising Center career counselor, instructor and three-time Rowan University alumna, devotes her life to guiding, coaching and encouraging students—and propelling them to achieve their goals. Whether meeting with them one-on-one, teaching courses or facilitating workshops, she forges genuine relationships with students, celebrating their successes as if they were family members, her colleagues say. Farrar is co-author of “Purposeful Career Planning: Transactional vs. Transformational Career Readiness.” Published in the Summer 2024 NACE Journal, it highlights the importance of student-centered career practices. “The trusting relationships that Shirley cultivates with students have flourished into longstanding connections, as she partners with them as undergraduates, graduates and alumni,” says a colleague. “What is most impressive is that Rowan graduates choose to remain connected with Shirley after graduation.” Alumni continue to check in with Farrar, attend her webinars, update her on their lives and seek career guidance from her. According to a colleague, “Her unwavering commitment to student success, innovative mentoring practices and ability to inspire and empower Rowan students make her an exceptional candidate for this honor.”