In 2016, the Career and Professional Development Center began recognizing faculty members who contribute to students’ career development and exploration throughout the year.

“Our work cannot be confined to the Career Center if we are to make the greatest impact on our students’ future lives,” said Kelly Dries, associate director for Counseling Services & Operations for the U’s Career and Professional Development Center. “Our mission is to foster a culture where everyone is engaging students in career conversations.”

The center’s Faculty Recognition Program celebrates faculty who have done an exceptional job of mentoring students and facilitating their professional growth. The 2018 recognition breakfast was held Friday, April 13, and recognized 21 faculty who were nominated by students. Additionally, one academic advisor and one administrator were honored.

Read full article here.

Peter Flynn of the Department of Chemistry was one of this year’s awardees. His nominator wrote the following:

“Dr. Flynn’s goal for the students in his group is to make us better citizens and better scientists, using the research as a vehicle to that end. He invests far more of himself than he has to in order to reach that goal. He is always available to listen and offer advice, not just about our research, but our classes, academic goals and career ambitions. He supports our academics by helping answer tough questions we get in class, and also gives his perspective on the different paths we could take career wise. When I started his research group one-and-a-half years ago, I had only the vaguest idea of what my professional and academic goals would be. I wasn’t sure if graduate school was right for me, I wasn’t sure what field of chemistry I would excel in. With Dr. Flynn as a mentor, I am much closer to knowing my own strengths and weaknesses, and having experience in different fields and types of chemistry, I know more what to expect. Thanks to Dr. Flynn’s encouragement and guidance, I now firmly know that I will go to graduate school.”

Congratulations Dr. Flynn!