Professor John G. Francis Prize for Undergraduate Student Mentoring
The Professor John G. Francis Prize for Undergraduate Student Mentoring recognizes faculty who demonstrate exceptional commitment to mentoring undergraduate students beyond the classroom. This annual award honors faculty who foster academic, professional, and personal growth through impactful mentorship.
Nominations are open through December 15, 2025.
Early Career Award
$1,250
Presented to early-career faculty who exhibit extraordinary promise and dedication
to undergraduate mentoring.
Advanced Career Award
$1,250
Presented to established faculty who have made a sustained and significant impact
on undergraduate student mentoring.
Recent Recipients
2024
Melissa Watt, Shane McFarlane
2023
Cynthia Furse
2022
Akiko Kamimura
2021
Taylor Sparks
Selection Criteria
Nominations are evaluated using the following criteria:
- Extraordinary Mentoring Efforts: Demonstrated commitment to mentoring undergraduate students outside of classroom instruction.
- Programmatic or Institutional Impact: Contributions to mentoring initiatives or activities that support students at a programmatic or institutional level.
- Documented Mentoring Activities: Evidence of mentoring included in the nominee’s curriculum vitae.
- Supportive and Inclusive Environment: Creation of an encouraging, inclusive, and student-centered mentoring atmosphere.
Nomination Process
Nominations are open through December 15, 2025.
Submissions must be completed using the online nomination form.
Required Materials:
- Letter of recommendation
- Current CV of nominee
- Specific quotes or other evidence from students illustrating the impact of mentorship