The Ralph E. Martin Department of Chemical Engineering at the U of A is entering year four of the Chemical Engineering Mentoring Program. The department established an alumni student mentoring program in 2021-22 academic year. 

The program started its fourth year with a kick-off on Tuesday, Sept. 3, with a record number of 92 students with 38 mentors. This program has been a cornerstone of our commitment to fostering meaningful connections between alumni and students. This year's program continues to thrive, with an impressive increase in student participation and commitment. We are particularly excited to welcome first-year engineering students who are eager to explore the field of chemical engineering.

In honor of National Mentoring Day on Oct. 27, the department wants to extend heartfelt gratitude to all our mentors, past and present. Your time, kindness, guidance and support make a tremendous impact on the lives of our students. As mentors, you're not just sharing knowledge; you're building confidence, shaping futures and opening new doors for aspiring engineers.

The program's mission is clear: to create a mutually beneficial relationship that enhances the professional development of our chemical engineering students while offering alumni a rewarding way to give back. Our mentorship approach includes dividing mentors into Mentoring Circles, now named in honor of the esteemed members of the inaugural class of the Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers (AACHE). Program oversight and leadership is provided by the AACHE.

A huge thank you to our Steering Team, composed entirely of AACHE members, for their ongoing support and leadership:

• Ed Clausen – faculty and Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers
• Greg Nesmith – Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers
• Heather Walker – faculty and Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers
• Kent McAllister – Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers
• Bob Dean – Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers
• Michael Mourot – Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers

Another fantastic year of mentorship!

Go Hogs!