"One of the greatest values of mentors is the ability to see ahead what others cannot see and to help them navigate a course to their destination."
– John C. Maxwell
Come and join us for this year’s Graduate Faculty Mentorship Workshop Series. Learn from Ohio State’s own experts and this year’s GFMA winners about mentorship.
This workshop series is open to:
- all faculty
- graduate coordinators
- graduate students
- post docs
- staff
You can sign up for one, two or all three workshops.
Stages of Mentorship: Setting Goals for Graduate Students' Success
GFMA Workshop Series: Number 1
Date: October 9, 2025
Time: 1-2 p.m.
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Presenter: Dr. David Hoffmann, Arts and Sciences Distinguished Professor, Department of History, College of Arts and Sciences
A distinguished mentor, David Hoffmann’s dedication and empathy have significantly impacted his students’ academic and professional journeys. Over his 30 years at Ohio State, he has advised nearly 20 PhD students, over 25 MA theses and served on more than 100 graduate committees. His support, feedback and expertise have been crucial in helping students achieve success. Hoffmann’s mentorship emphasizes active engagement, precise feedback and creating a supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and professionally.
Register to attend workshop 1 online
(After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.)
Mentoring Graduate Students and Researchers: Building Meaningful Collaborations between Faculty and Trainees
GFMA Workshop Series: Number 2
Date: November 11, 2025
Time: 1-2 p.m.
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Presenter: Dr. James Fuchs, Professor, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy
James Fuchs is a dedicated and compassionate mentor who focuses on the growth and success of his students. He creates an environment where creativity, resilience and problem-solving are central to research and professional development. Understanding that each student has unique needs, he customizes his mentorship to provide the right balance of guidance and independence. Since joining Ohio State in 2007, he has mentored more than 50 undergraduate and graduate students and served on more than 125 dissertation committees.
Register to attend workshop 2 online
(After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.)
Mentoring an Individual within a System: Practical Tips and Tools for Your Research Group
GFMA Workshop Series: Number 3
Date: February 10, 2026
Time: 1-2 p.m.
Location: Virtual on Zoom
Presenter: Dr. Rachel Louis Kajfez, Associate Professor , Department of Engineering Education, College of Engineering
Rachel Louis Kajfez’s approach to mentorship is characterized by thoughtful planning, continuous improvement and building a supportive atmosphere. Throughout her career, she has guided many undergraduate researchers, graduate students and early career faculty, providing essential support and feedback. Her mentorship focuses on active engagement, precise feedback and connecting theoretical research to real-world outcomes. Kajfez’s dedication to her students’ success extends beyond their time at the university as she continues to offer guidance and support in their career development.
Register to attend workshop 3 online
(After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.)
2026 GFMA Nominations
Remember, we will accept nominations for the graduate faculty mentor award starting January 15, 2026