Women's Faculty Caucus Distinguished Mentor Award: Jane Ann Boles, Founders Day Faculty Awards, Academic Year 2023-24. Portrait of Jane Ann Boles.

Jane Ann Boles

The Women’s Faculty Caucus Distinguished Mentor Award is presented to Jane Ann Boles, an associate professor in the Department of Animal and Range Sciences. The award recognizes extraordinary efforts by a faculty member in mentoring women students, staff, research associates and faculty. The award carries a $2,000 honorarium.

Boles’ research and teaching focuses on animal science, meat science and food safety. Numerous nominators highlighted her dedication to making students and faculty feel comfortable regardless of setting and empowering them to ask questions and become advocates for themselves.

One nominator wrote, “Her valuable mentorship is something I’m unsure she is aware of. Over the last three years, Dr. Boles has taught me how to be a better mentor myself. I’ve learned that mentoring is not telling someone what to do, but rather offering suggestions and being supportive. She is the epitome of a distinguished mentor.”

Boles has served on many graduate committees. Nominators highlighted her efforts to encourage and support graduate students through any challenges or confusion.

“Dr. Boles is clearly recognized and deeply appreciated by the faculty and students in her department,” wrote Ann Bertagnolli in a letter announcing Boles’ selection by the Women’s Faculty Caucus. “She is distinguished by her advocacy for others, her encouragement, inspiration, and belief in women faculty. She consistently helps them achieve their academic and personal goals and supports them throughout their career trajectories. Her caring commitment to others literally changes their lives and provides them ongoing direction and purpose.”

Oral version: Jane Ann Boles of the Department of Animal and Range Sciences is the recipient of the Women’s Faculty Caucus Distinguished Mentor Award. The award recognizes extraordinary efforts by a faculty member in mentoring women students, staff, research associates and faculty. Numerous nominators highlighted Dr. Boles’ dedication to making students and faculty feel comfortable regardless of setting and empowering to both ask questions and become advocates for themselves.