Most undergraduate research involves faculty mentorship. Faculty generally view their mentoring of undergraduates as a deeply satisfying form of teaching, although one that can require a major commitment of time and resources. Some are energized by the enthusiasm and fresh perspective that undergraduate can bring. Others feel the responsibility to “give back”, and honor the faculty who mentored them by helping the next generation.
This competitive award will be given to faculty members whose record of mentoring undergraduate research or creative activity are deemed particularly outstanding. Evidence for excellence in mentoring-undergraduate students is based on evaluation criteria (see below). The Awardee will be selected based upon mentoring related activities at SUNY Cortland. The Awardee(s) will receive a financial award and recognition at a campus reception.
Candidates for the annual Outstanding Achievement in Mentoring Undergraduate Research Award will be drawn from full-time tenure-track and tenured faculty (including library faculty) and full-time lecturers whose responsibilities include at least 50% teaching. Although past awardees have mentored up to dozens of research students, for consideration all nominees must have formally mentored or directed a minimum of two undergraduate student research projects. Past awardees are not eligible for this award.
Self-nominations and nominations from other SUNY Cortland students, faculty and professional staff will be accepted. For self-nominations, please send an email to Maria Timberlake, Director, Undergraduate Research Council, indicating your self-nomination. If you are nominating someone else, the name and department of nominee should be sent to Maria Timberlake, Director, Undergraduate Research Council, by email or campus post (Cornish Hall, Room 1227) on or before January 24, 2022.
Those nominees who wish to be considered for the Outstanding Achievement in Mentoring Undergraduate Student Research Award, must complete an application form, obtain one letter of support from a Faculty colleague, the Department Chair or School Dean (for faculty), and two letters from formally mentored student researchers. The completed application form includes: a curriculum vitae; list of publications / presentations / exhibitions / performances that include student authors or co-authors; a listing of undergraduate students formally mentored; and a brief synopsis of the nominee’s mentoring activities and methods. All completed application forms will be considered by the College’s Undergraduate Research Council which will make recommendations of awardees to the Provost.
All nominees will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
Please contact Maria Timberlake, Director URC at extension x5937 if you have any questions or need additional information.
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