The Ralph E. Martin Department of Chemical Engineering is proud to celebrate the fifth year of its Chemical Engineering Alumni Mentoring Program, launched during the 2021-22 academic year. Sponsored by the Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers and supported by department head Keisha Walters, the program continues to strengthen the bonds between students and alumni.

This year's program began with a kickoff event on Tuesday, Sept. 2, welcoming a record number of undergraduate participants and alumni mentors. Over the past five years, more than 70 alumni — including 18 members of the AAChE — have volunteered their time to guide and support students.

The mentoring program has become a cornerstone of student-alumni engagement for the department. It offers students invaluable opportunities for professional growth while giving alumni a meaningful way to give back to the department. Involvement of alumni is a key initiative for the department.

Mentors and students participate in mentoring circles throughout the semester, and each circle is named in honor of a member of the inaugural class of the Arkansas Academy of Chemical Engineers. Program oversight and leadership is provided by AAChE, with dedicated service from the steering team:

• Ed Clausen, University Professor
• Bob Dean
• Kent McAllister
• Michael Mourot
• Greg Nesmith
• Heather Walker, teaching associate professor

On the importance of mentorship, Michael Mourot (B.S. '76, M.S. '77) said, "Our alumni are living proof of our department's excellence. Their success stories and career trajectories show chemical engineering students what's possible. When you share your experiences from your time as a student to your current leadership roles, you strengthen our community and help attract top talent."

The department extends heartfelt gratitude to all mentors, past and present, whose time, kindness and expertise continue to shape the next generation of chemical engineers.