Deanna Rella

Deanna Rella is an experienced professional in higher education currently serving as the undergraduate academic advisor for the School of Data Science. With over twenty years of experience, Deanna is dedicated to guiding first-year and transfer students in the B.S. in Data Science and the Undergraduate Certificate in Sports Analytics programs. Her responsibilities include providing support to prospective and current students, assisting with admissions events, offering academic counseling and course selection guidance, and addressing academic policies and difficulties. Deanna also oversees a team of undergraduate peer advisors who offer one-on-one student support and conduct group advising orientation sessions.

Previously, Deanna served as the Associate Director of Academic Advising Development at the University Advising Center, where she played a vital role in designing, developing, and maintaining instructional interventions through the Canvas Learning Management System. She holds the Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) certification and has collaborated with internal partners to create content, develop technology solutions, and establish measurement strategies. Before her time at the University Advising Center, Deanna worked as an Academic Advisor in the Belk College of Business. She was instrumental in launching the Belk College of Business Peer Advisor program and actively participated in faculty and student engagement initiatives, making a positive impact on the student experience. Deanna’s diverse experience also includes roles as the Assistant Director of Residential Life & Residence Director at Siena College. Her commitment to student success and development extends beyond academic advising, as she has worked closely with residential students, facilitated training programs, and managed campus-wide evaluations. Deanna earned her Master’s of Education in Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of South Carolina.