Koret Mentor Awards 2025

dani wright, Lecturer; Art & Design: Games + Playable Media   

Koret mentee: "The act that truly touched my academic career was my hesitancy to submit my work to any competitions, since I thought my game was "childish" and "not a real game," but dani reminded me that it’s playfulness is part of its charm and that she would consider it queer games avante-garde."

Valerie Cortez, Asst. Professor; Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology  

Koret mentee: "Dr. Cortez has helped me see myself in science. Her mentorship has been key to my decision to pursue graduate studies in infectious disease and public health. She created an environment where I felt seen, valued, and supported, something every student deserves but not all receive."

Jay Reti, Asst. Teaching Professor; Anthropology  

Koret mentee: "Beyond a research mentor, Jay has developed into a personal mentor for me. He has been an invaluable resource to answer all of my questions regarding academia, my future career, networking, the state of the field, and more. Most of all, Jay constantly inspires his students and motivates us to pursue our passions."

Sean Keilen, Professor; Literature  

Koret mentee: "Sean encouraged me to apply to the Koret scholarship. Over the course of working on my project, Sean has been generous with his time and has met with me every week to discuss my work. He has been very proactive in sending me materials to support my research, and his feedback on my work has really challenged me and improved my abilities as a writer and researcher."

Needhi Bhalla, Professor; Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology  

Koret mentee: "Needhi creates a lab culture grounded in mutual respect, understanding, and excellence. She holds everyone to the same standards while ensuring no one is left behind. Her patience and empathy are unmatched; she accommodates my schedule and personal needs without making me feel burdensome. Her feedback, whether on my writing or data interpretation, is always constructive and supportive, helping me build confidence and skill as a researcher."

Justin Perez, Asst. Professor; Latin American & Latino Studies  

Koret mentee: "What stands out most is how deeply Professor Perez cares about his students - not just our academic work, but our personal growth and well-being. I’ve always felt like he’s in my corner, encouraging me to do my best while also meeting me where I am. I truly believe I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor."

Sara O'Rourke, Asst. Project Scientist; Biomolecular Science and Engineering  

Koret mentee: "Sara has been an incredible mentor. Not only because of her technical expertise, but because of her willingness to support and engage with every aspect of my scientific development. As a first-generation, low income student, Sara has supported me not just as a scientist, but as a student navigating the uncertainties of academia. I’m incredibly grateful to have had her mentorship."

Sofie Salama, Acting Professor; Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology  

Koret mentee: "Her passion for science and dedication to mentorship has given me confidence in myself and my own ability to be a scientist. She challenges me intellectually while fostering a lab environment that values curiosity, resilience, and creativity. I genuinely believe I wouldn’t be the researcher I am today without her support."