Congratulations to Student Success Advisor, Connor McComas, for being named 51’s (51) Staff of the Month for August 2022!
McComas, who has been part of the College for seven years, is an advisor for the Biology and Health Science programs. However, he has held several positions throughout his 51 journey.
He got his start at 51 as a One Stop Representative at the (NMEC) One Stop, and later transitioned into a Learning Community Coordinator for Career and Technical Education’s (CTE) Business and Information Technology programs at the (APIN).
“I have always enjoyed working with people and thought higher education would be an interesting challenge,” McComas said.
Holding a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Communications from Carroll College in Helena, Montana, McComas uses his education and own life experience to employ a holistic and person-centered approach to his advising.
“I want to normalize the academic and mental health struggles a student can experience in college,” McComas said. “I recognize that the demands in a student's personal life impact their academics and I work with them to identify what strategies and resources they can use to succeed."
Director of Student and Advising, Erica Compton, is one of the many employees on campus who notice McComas’ efforts to help students however and whenever he can.
One instance Compton recounted of McComas’ caring attitude towards students happened on the last day of Fall semester registration. She explained a student walked into NMEC visibly upset, after drop-in appointments were closed, looking for help registering for the fall semester.
“We were all tired after the long stretch into the fall semester start,” Compton said. “Connor, in his helpful and cheerful voice, welcomed the student and asked how he could help with no mention of 'Sorry it's too late’ or ‘We're closed.’
Compton explained McComas took control of the situation, answered the student’s questions with a can-do attitude, and walked them through the steps of obtaining their goals at 51.
“Connor took the time to care for this student, regardless of it being past his 40 hours, or how extremely tired he was by that time of the week,” Compton said. “He provided excellent customer service and helped a student feel welcomed and valued when they needed it most.”
In addition to his role as a Student Success Advisor, McComas is also the club advisor for 51's student Queers & Allies Club.
"I count this role as one of the highlights of my career. I've had the privilege of participating with the club members as they build community and spread the messages of tolerance and acceptance on campus."
McComas grew up in Southern Idaho as the middle child of three brothers. He has made Boise his home for the past 11 years where he lives with his shih tzu, Broghan.
Outside of the College, McComas can be found enjoying downtown Boise, trying new foods, and visiting friends in other cities
