Graduate School Mentoring Award

Description

This award recognizes faculty members who demonstrate exceptional mentorship of graduate students. Outstanding mentors go beyond supporting students’ academic achievements; they also foster professional and personal development, sharing their time, effort, and wisdom to ensure students’ well-being and success.

One award will be given per college within the graduate school, with up to two additional awards at the discretion of the judging committee. Winners will receive a plaque. The judging committee will consist of graduate students representing all colleges in the graduate school.

Applications will be accepted from March 13 to April 5, 2026, for mentoring contributions made in the 2025 calendar year. Faculty members may be nominated multiple times by different students but can only win the award once every 10 years.

Application Requirements (for Nominators)

● Item I should be typed directly into the Google Form in the "Submissions" section below.

I. Nomination Letter from a Graduate Student (500 words max)

● One or multiple students may write this letter.

● Students are encouraged to nominate more than one professor if applicable.

In your statement, begin by explaining your relationship with the nominee. Then, provide specific examples addressing the following criteria:

1. Academic Support

● How does this professor contribute to your academic success?

● Do they provide clear expectations and feedback, challenge you intellectually, and support awards and publications?

● How do they aid in your productivity and learning experience?

2. Personal Well-Being

● Does the professor respect your time, offer guidance in difficult situations, and serve as a role model?

● Have they helped you build self-confidence while maintaining humility?

3. Professional Development

● How does this professor support your career growth?

● Do they encourage conference presentations, networking opportunities, and post-degree placements?

Note:

Nomination letters may be shared with the nominee if they receive the award. Please indicate in the Google Form if you would like your name to be redacted.Nomination Link: https://forms.gle/iDwkVEDfKLBHjKJk8

Questions?

Lakshimi Swaminathan
(lswamina@nd.edu)