NSHE Mentoring Institute 2024

NSHE Mentoring Institute 2024 

Attendees interact and network with colleagues across NSHE institutions at this year’s Mentoring Institute. (Photo credit: Mayara Cueto-Diaz)

The NSHE Mentoring Institute 2024 (MI2024): Building STEM Education, Research and Workforce Through Mentorship at Nevada Institutions of Higher Learning was hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada this past October 8-9, 2024, at the Embassy Suites Las Vegas. The Institute showcased NSHE program talent and success, addressed challenges specific to broadening participation in Nevada, and provided support through professional development surrounding STEM mentorship and research promotion. There were 40 participants from NSHE institutions, including Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC), Great Basin College (GBC), University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), and Nevada State University (NSU). The Institute highlighted best practice programs across NSHE and hosted facilitated discussions and working sessions to address:

• Values, Challenges and Opportunities for Research Experience and Mentorship in Nevada
• Support and Mentorship Programs for Underrepresented Students
• Mentorship Through College Access and Bridge Programs
• Connecting Conversations – Bridging Learners & Educators
• Communication in Mentoring and Developing Undergraduate Research Support Programs
• Keeping Track of Data
• Assessing Campus Status with Respect to Characteristics of Excellence in Undergraduate Research (COEUR)

Additionally, the MI2024 provided NSHE mentors with a forum to develop mentoring skills and for faculty to build capacity and networks in STEM education, research and workforce. The attendees were provided with intensive training, collaboration and an opportunity to interact and network with colleagues across NSHE institutions. As one of the participants mentioned, “the opportunity to network with professionals from various Nevada institutions was incredibly beneficial, as it opened doors for potential collaborations. I also appreciated the emphasis on fostering diversity and inclusion through mentorship, which provided valuable insights on how we can build more inclusive learning environments.”

The 2024 NSHE Mentoring Institute was planned by a steering committee of NSHE faculty/administrators, and in partnership, with the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR). If you are interested in participating in next year’s planning committee, please contact Michele Casella at mcasella@nshe.nevada.edu.