Carol Plautz, assistant professor of biology at Shepherd University, was recognized by the Council on Undergraduate Research with an Outstanding Mentoring Award. (submitted)

Carol Plautz, assistant professor of biology at Shepherd University, was recognized by the Council on Undergraduate Research with an Outstanding Mentoring Award.

This first-time national award is given to three professors – assistant, associate and full – and includes a $200 cash prize. Applicants are asked to submit recommendation letters from a colleague and student as well as from themselves.

Plautz, who began teaching at Shepherd in the fall of 2008, said that her favorite thing about teaching at Shepherd is mentoring students.

This fall, three of the students Plautz has mentored will enter Ph.D. programs around the country.

In addition to mentoring students in research, Plautz and Peter Vila, assistant professor of environmental and physical sciences, host a graduate school information session each fall.

The panel discussion features alumni and scientists and allows students to learn about how to apply for graduate school and what to consider when applying and to ask questions.

Colleen Nolan, dean of the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, said that the award recognizes a deserving faculty member.