Practices in Research Mentorship Highlighted at the 2025 Academic Innovation Winter Institute
The 2025 Academic Innovation Winter Institute brought together over 70 faculty and staff from Cal Poly Pomona to engage in meaningful discussions and activities centered on inclusive practices in research mentorship.
Held January 15-16, the event underscored the vital role that research mentorship plays in fostering student success and building a more equitable and innovative academic community.
The event featured a variety of sessions led by keynote speakers, faculty experts, and facilitators, covering topics such as breaking barriers in mentorship, fostering trust and collaboration through effective communication, balancing authority and empathy to navigate power dynamics, and designing inclusive research programs to create accessible pathways for students to engage in research.
Keynote speaker, Sophie Pierszalowski, director of the Office of Undergraduate Research at the University of Washington, gave a talk where she delved into the multifaceted benefits that undergraduate research provides, emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving and effective communication. Emphasizing the power of mentorship, Pierszalowski said, “Inclusive mentoring doesn’t just shape students’ academic and career journeys—it builds a foundation for a stronger, more diverse community of scholars.”
Winny Dong, inaugural senior director of innovation and grants of the Office of Academic Innovation, emphasized the importance of the institute.
“This year, the Office of Academic Innovation’s Winter Institute focused on inclusive mentoring.,” Dong said.“As faculty and staff at a university, mentoring students is one of the most important jobs that we do. The institute plated a part in fostering a community where we all invested in making sure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.”
Participants praised the event’s practical focus and collaborative atmosphere, with many sharing plans to implement the tools and strategies learned.
For more information on the Academic Innovation Winter Institute or information on the upcoming summer conference, visit the Office of Academic Innovation website or contact the team directly at ai@cpp.edu.