In recognition of his deep commitment to mentoring graduate students, Ryan Kilmer, professor of psychology, has received the 2014 Harshini V. de Silva Graduate Mentor Award. Colleagues, university officials, community members and students gathered in his honor on Tuesday, Feb. 18, at the Harris Alumni Center at Johnson Glen.
A clinical-community psychologist, Kilmer is focused on improving the lives of children, especially those who are at-risk for emotional, behavioral or academic difficulties. He is co-director of the Community Psychology Research Lab, where he works collaboratively with colleagues, graduate students and community partners on various grant-funded projects to improve the well-being of children and families, as well as youth and adolescents transitioning into adulthood, in the greater Charlotte region.
In presenting the award, university leaders noted Kilmer’s mastery of mentoring and the importance of positive relationships between faculty and graduate students.
“As a mentor, Dr. Kilmer provides his students with support on an ongoing basis – he bolsters them when they struggle and during periods of self-doubt,” said Nancy Gutierrez, dean of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. “Throughout their time together and beyond, Dr. Kilmer remains positive and supportive, always pushing the student forward and not allowing him or her to just “settle.” ”
In the words of one student in support of Kilmer’s nomination, “I personally witnessed and benefited from Dr. Kilmer’s tireless efforts to push his students to reach and exceed their goals. … He was undoubtedly one of the most sought-after mentors, a source of infectious enthusiasm and a model academician.”
Another student wrote, “Dr. Kilmer does not give up on his students. Even when I have doubted my own abilities or competencies, he has always stood behind me and believed I could do it. I take pride in knowing that many of my academic accomplishments were made possible by his advice, support and constructive feedback.”
At the event, Laura Lovato, who is a Ph.D. student in Clinical Health Psychology, described Kilmer as a teacher who expects excellence, and receives excellence in response. She values Kilmer’s feedback and described it as clear, concise and thoughtful.
Kilmer, who earned a doctorate in psychology with specializations in clinical and community psychology from the University of Rochester in 1999, joined UNC Charlotte that fall as an assistant professor. He was promoted to associate professor in 2005 and full professor in 2012. From his first semester on campus, Kilmer cultivated a reputation as a scholar, researcher and mentor. His efforts with students extend beyond their graduation; he remains a resource for his students as they transition into colleagues.
The de Silva Award honors its namesake, an exceptional teacher, brilliant scholar and researcher and devoted servant of her profession and community until her death in October 2000. It is given annually to the faculty member whose commitment to students, research and scholarly inquiry most closely exemplifies the spirit of de Silva.
