Imagine getting together with 40 interesting people on a topic of importance – Mentoring in Academia: Research and Resources – in one of the most beautiful places on earth – Banff, Alberta, Canada. That is where I am right now. Bob Gray from Stanford University was the driving force behind this workshop, based on his very successful workshop PAESMEM: Mentoring for Academic Careers in Engineering. The attendees are a wonderful group of committed academic leaders, faculty and students, and a few organizational representatives like me. All have come together because of their passion and interest in developing effective Mentoring programs. This workshop is held under the auspices of the Banff International Research Station, located at the Banff Centre, which is located in the Rockies of Alberta. The drive from Calgary to Banff that Maria Klawe and I took yesterday was breathtaking. The high Rock Mountains in this area dominate the landscape with sharp edges and breathtaking views of ice and rock. For me, the cares of the world float away as we neared Banff.But the real reason for being here is to learn from the experts.
One of the first speakers today was Yolanda George from AAAS. She referenced a recently released report called Survey of Doctoral Students Finances, Experiences, and Achievements that indicated that 70% of Doctoral Students have a mentor. This is particularly important for underrepresented groups; this particular study does not break out women.The workshop is just beginning, so I will write more about my observations, but with these smart people, and the beautiful location, how can you go wrong.