Dean’s message: convocation, CIMER and a wellness hub

Dele Davies, MD

Dele Davies, MD

As we continue to plan for the upcoming academic year, I want to reflect on some recent happenings in Graduate Studies.

Dr. Davies welcomed graduate students into the new wellness hub following its ribbon cutting in April.

First, more than 50 students graduated in May, and it was an honor to celebrate their accomplishments at the May 5 spring honors convocation ceremony. Based on their training, I am confident our graduates have successful careers ahead of them where they will make a positive difference in changing the world.

Second, as part of our commitment to enhance faculty mentoring skills, we sent three faculty members to a train-the-trainers workshop offered by the Center for the Improvement of Mentored Experiences in Research (CIMER). This highly specialized training is intended to have a cascade effect, where our UNMC experts pass on their knowledge to fellow graduate faculty. Another three faculty will receive the same training next month. I look forward to seeing how workshop attendees multiply the impact of their training to improve the academic experience for both mentors and students.  

Finally, I want to draw special attention to a key project that is designed to support our students’ overall well-being. The Graduate Student Wellness Hub is a central location for students to recharge, study or connect with our wellness advocate. The hub will ensure students have easy access to the resources they need to thrive academically and personally.

I hope you enjoy reading these stories and celebrating our talented faculty and students. I look forward to what the next academic year will bring.