Academic Innovation Winter Institute

Session 1 | 12:30 AM - 1:30 PM 

Everything, Everywhere, All at Once: Imposter Syndrome and the Mentorship Journey

Multiple and intersecting systems of oppression are enacted within academia; this is something we often speak about. What is less discussed, however, are the tangible and material impacts of these systems on students who are beginning their journeys as researcher-scholars. This presentation focuses on the impact of these structures, their creation of “imposter syndrome,” and offers strategies and modalities of support that mentors can provide their mentees who are overwhelmed with self-doubt, fears of inadequacy, and the lingering shame of imposterness.

Session 2 | 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM 

Characteristics of Excellence in Undergraduate Research Mentoring

Last year, the Council on Undergraduate Research published an updated document outlining Characteristics of Excellence in Undergraduate Research. This document serves as a roadmap for best practices and resources needed to support and sustain undergraduate research excellence. In this session, we will facilitate a discussion around characteristics most relevant to faculty mentors. Participants will critically assess CPP’s areas of success and opportunity related to undergraduate research and will provide feedback for how CPP’s infrastructure for undergraduate research can be strengthened. We will leave this session with a list of focus areas for campus leadership to address in order to elevate the infrastructure for undergraduate research CPP.

Session 3 | 2:45 PM - 3:45 PM 

Empowering Future Careers through Undergraduate Research

Participating in undergraduate research equips college students with essential skills and competencies that are pivotal for their future careers. This presentation will delve into the multifaceted benefits that undergraduate research provides, emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Through hands-on research experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of their field, fostering intellectual curiosity and innovation. Additionally, they develop technical skills and proficiency in research methodologies, preparing them for the complexities of the professional world. The collaborative nature of research enhances teamwork and leadership capabilities, while the necessity to present findings refines public speaking and writing skills. By bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application, undergraduate research not only enriches students' educational journeys but also significantly boosts their employability and readiness to tackle real-world challenges. Join us to explore how these research experiences are shaping tomorrow's leaders.

Session 4 | 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM 

Building Strong Mentor-mentee Relationships: CIMER Workshop on Mentor and Mentee Agreements

This interactive workshop will explore the importance of setting clear expectations in mentor-mentee relationships. Using CIMER (Center for the Improvement of Mentored Experiences in Research) tools, we will delve into how formal agreements can guide these relationships towards mutual understanding and success. Participants will engage in crafting and analyzing mentorship compacts that foster accountability and trust. Whether you are a new or experienced mentor, this session will provide actionable insights into creating a more structured mentoring experience.

Session 5 | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 

Mentorship in Action: Panel on Faculty and Staff Integrating Mentoring into Practice

This panel discussion will bring together faculty and staff members who have successfully integrated mentoring into their daily academic and research practices. They will share real-world examples of how they have supported undergraduate researchers and students in general through hands-on mentoring approaches and strategic initiatives. Attendees will leave with new strategies to implement mentoring in their own work environments, whether through formal programs or everyday interactions with student

Session 6 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM 

Promoting research as a career-readiness tool & connecting undergraduates with paid opportunities

In this session, we will explore the Council on Undergraduate Research’s position paper on undergraduate research as a career-readiness tool. This document highlights the ways that undergraduate research opportunities map directly to the eight National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) career competencies and highlights the importance of helping students show employers the value and relevance of their research journeys to careers post-graduation. We will engage with this paper through small group discussions and will consider how we can better communicate career-related benefits to undergraduates as a motivator to engage in research. In the second half, we will provide an overview of existing opportunities to engage undergraduates in research at CPP, including the Federal Work Study Program, various government funded programs such as STARS, and scholarship opportunitie

Session 7 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM 

Safe Spaces and Psychological Safety for Students and Belonging