Lisa Angeloni has stepped into a new role at the Graduate School as the director of the Graduate Center for Inclusive Mentoring at Colorado State University.

Angeloni, a long-time faculty member in the Department of Biology and the Graduate Degree Program in Ecology, brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to equitable mentoring practices. She plans to expand GCIM’s offerings, connect students with mentors, and develop initiatives to support graduate students with marginalized identities.

“For me, mentoring students is the most rewarding aspect of being a professor; and mentors play a huge role in post-graduation success,” said Angeloni. “When mentors take the time to learn about a student’s unique experience, interests and career path they can connect students with the right resources to help them advance.”

GCIM equips mentors in CSU’s graduate community with the tools they need to help their mentees reach their goals and overcome challenges. Faculty who advise graduate students are encouraged to enroll in GCIM’s Mentor Well training. This program covers mentoring topics critical to graduate students, such as maintaining effective communication and promoting independence. Faculty, from any department, who complete a series of eight sessions receive a GCIM Mentor Well certificate. Registration for Mentor Well training is open now and sessions will begin in the spring of 2024.

Mentor Well certification is only one part of a multi-pronged approach to advance mentoring at CSU. The Mentor Monday series features discussion-based sessions on the first Monday of each month, providing a forum where graduate students and mentors can discuss various challenges and opportunities present in graduate school. This spring semester, Angeloni will further focus discussion towards equity, diversity, and inclusion.

“We are very lucky to have an experienced mentor as our new GCIM director,” said Colleen Webb, vice provost for graduate affairs and dean of the Graduate School. “She advocates for all graduate students, especially those with underrepresented identities.”

Departments are encouraged to utilize GCIM opportunities such as scholarships, awards, department grants, and other provided activities and programs to support graduate students. GCIM, housed in the Graduate School, provides these opportunities with the understanding that lifelong mentorships have a positive impact on scholarly achievements at CSU. As director, Angeloni plans to expand offerings while continuing successful initiatives.