, assistant vice president of academic affairs for , professor of and and senior associate dean for academic and student affairs at the (COPH), received an honorable mention at the .
The recognition honored Zgibor for her outstanding commitment to graduate student mentorship and academic leadership. For more than 20 years, she has directly mentored 37 doctoral students and more than 50 master鈥檚 students across multiple disciplines.
鈥淢entoring graduate students is one of the most meaningful and enduring aspects of my academic career,鈥� Zgibor said in her remarks. She described her mentoring philosophy as rooted in respect, empathy and a student-centered approach that prioritizes academic excellence, personal growth and long-term success.
Zgibor emphasized the importance of creating supportive environments where students can learn from challenges and develop confidence as independent scholars.
鈥淟earning from mistakes is one of the most powerful methods we have to learn,鈥� she said, adding that mentorship should focus on growth rather than disappointment.
She also highlighted the importance of preparing students for independent research careers through hands-on learning, collaboration and professional development.
鈥淢entoring graduate students is not just a professional responsibility, it is a privilege and a passion,鈥� Zgibor said.
Following recognition of faculty awardees, several COPH l students were also honored with competitive university fellowships:
- Akua Obeng, a , received the Presidential Doctoral Fellowship
- Diana Diaz, Melissa Newsome and Destiny Cruz, all , were awarded Graduate Student Success Fellowships
- Kayla Nembhard, a PhD student in community and family health, earned the McKnight Doctoral Fellowship
The Chih Foundation Research and Publication Awards and Scholars of Excellence Ceremony recognizes exceptional faculty and graduate students across the university for excellence in mentorship, scholarship and research achievement.