Congratulations to Jie Chen, professor of cell and developmental biology, who was honored with the Campus Award for Excellence in Graduate Student Mentoring. The award recognizes faculty members for their sustained excellence in graduate student mentoring, innovative approaches to graduate advising, and their impact on graduate student scholarship and professional development.

As described by her nominator, Chen pushes students to think critically while also teaching them to effectively design and execute experiments. Her motto, that the health and sanity of her students are paramount, is a testament to her commitment as a kind and considerate mentor. A successful female scientist and a parent, she has been instrumental in helping young men and women balance their professional and personal lives.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign annually recognizes faculty, staff, and graduate teaching assistants through the Campus Awards for Excellence in Instruction. Chen and Stephen Long, professor of plant biology and crop sciences, received the graduate mentoring award this year.