Anna Newnum, a dedicated student advocate and longtime advising professional, has taken on a new role as Director for Advising and Recruitment in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS). In this leadership position, Newnum builds on more than a decade of experience helping students navigate their academic pathways.  

Newnum’s journey at the University of Iowa began in graduate school, where she earned her PhD in English with a focus on Victorian literature. It was also here that she first discovered her passion for advising, serving as a graduate assistant working directly with English majors. That early experience laid the foundation for a career centered on student support and connection. 

Over the last decade, Newnum advised students majoring in journalism and mass communication, cinema, and American studies.  

Most recently, Newnum served as an assistant director within the CLAS Advising Network, where she supported both student outreach and professional development for advisors across the college. In her new role as director, she now oversees the advising team. 

Newnum describes the CLAS Advising Network as a kind of “nervous system” for the college: advisors are embedded in academic units to help students navigate opportunities and challenges. 

With a background in English, storytelling, and student engagement, Anna has a unique lens for both celebrating student success and advancing Advising’s role in recruitment and retention. 

“I’m excited for this opportunity to support and expand the work our advising team does every day,” Newnum said. “It’s about connecting students with what they need, helping them see the possibilities ahead of them, and ensuring our advising system works as a bridge between students and the many resources available across CLAS.” 

Please join CLAS in congratulating Anna Newnum on her new role as Director for CLAS Advising and Recruitment.