Research Mentor Awards
Eligibility
UNCG faculty members with experience mentoring UNCG undergraduate students in projects that contribute to their disciplinary scholarship are eligible for this award. Nominees should hold a terminal degree in their discipline. The faculty member must have mentored at least five UNCG undergraduate students in research and/or creative inquiry. Prior recipients can be reconsidered after a three-year interlude.
Examples of the types of activities that will be considered in the selection process include:
Evidence of consistent research and scholarly activity involving UNCG undergraduate students in research or creative inquiry;Mentoring UNCG undergraduates whose work has led to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations;Innovative approaches to mentoring undergraduates, including the involvement of graduate students and post-doctoral scholars in undergraduate student mentorshipExtramural support for undergraduate research activities through grants, contracts, and/or fundraising.
2025 Thomas Undergraduate Research Mentor Award Winner for Tenured Faculty
Dr. Jackie Maher, Kinesiology
“My approach to undergraduate research and teaching heavily emphasizes experiential learning while prioritizing inclusion. It is important to me that all undergraduate students become comfortable engaging with scientific research because, as future health professionals, they will need to be able to review and evaluate the literature to inform their own evidence-based practice.”
2025 Thomas Undergraduate Research Mentor Award Winner for Pre-Tenured Faculty
Dr. Robert Wiley, Psychology
“Mentoring undergraduate students is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. My approach to mentorship is rooted in the principles of student-centered learning, a growth mindset, and fostering critical thinking. These values guide my efforts to provide undergraduates with meaningful research experiences that not only advance their skills but also encourage lifelong learning and professional growth.”
2025 Thomas Undergraduate Research Mentor Award Winner for Professional Track Faculty
ms. Kim Cuny, Communication Studies
“Teaching is communicating and revolves around growing and maintaining relationships with students – as whole people. I approach teaching and scholarship from a systems perspective. You have to recognize the interconnectedness of different aspects of peoples’ lives.”
