Graduate College to recognize Outstanding Faculty Mentors

Mentorship is one of the most crucial aspects of the faculty role — and can be the most rewarding.

The Graduate College at Arizona State University will broadcast the 36th annual Outstanding Faculty Mentor Awards from Old Main on the Tempe campus from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Arizona time, on Feb. 28.

This time-honored tradition highlights mentors nominated by students and postdoctoral fellows for the impact they have on their lives and the community. Awardees will be recognized by one of their nominating students during the ceremony.

“We’re thrilled to honor faculty members who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding mentorship in the ASU community. Their guidance fosters a network of support that enables graduate students and postdocs to thrive in their academic and career pursuits,” said Tamara Underiner, associate dean of professional development and engagement at the Graduate College.

Adela Grando, from the College of Health Solutions, is among the four nominees this year; she was nominated in the Outstanding Master’s Mentor category. Grando provided insight into her mentoring philosophy that has been an integral part of her success.

“I train my mentees to be punctual, follow through on commitments, behave professionally and act with integrity and honesty. I do so by being a role model, setting up clear goals and expectations, monitoring weekly progress, providing honest feedback, rewarding positive work ethic and recognizing dedication,” she said.

Not only does this event give recognition to faculty members who have positively influenced the trajectory of their students, it is also an opportunity to uphold ASU’s design aspiration of social embeddedness. At the ceremony, attendees will have the chance to discuss philosophies, network and share plans for the future. 

The Outstanding Faculty Mentors for 2022–23:

• Outstanding Postdoctoral Mentor: Anthony Peguero, professor at the T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics.
• Outstanding Doctoral Mentor: Wei Li, professor at the School of Social Transformation.
• Outstanding Master's Mentor: Adela Grando, professor and director at the College of Health Solutions.
• Outstanding Instructional Faculty Mentor: Jada Ach, assistant teaching professor at the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts.

The Graduate College is dedicated to professional development and believes mentorship is a necessary foundation in academic growth and career development.

Tune in live at 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 28 by visiting ASU Live.