Boise State’s Graduate College is investing in research-informed mentoring and advising to enhance the graduate student experience, support retention and degree completion, and align with university strategic goals. This page introduces the inaugural Graduate Mentoring & Advising Faculty Fellows, and provides an overview of the Faculty Advisory Council and Student Advisory Council, including current membership. Over time, we will add updates about the Fellows’ projects and council-driven initiatives.
Graduate Mentoring & Advising Faculty Fellows (2025-27)
Two Faculty Fellows lead and collaborate on efforts that elevate graduate mentoring and advising:
- Faculty Fellow for Faculty Development – Krishna Pakala, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Associate Chair, Department of Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering. Focus: enhancing faculty mentoring practices and professional development.
- Faculty Fellow for Student Development – Karen Viskupic, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Department of Geosciences. Focus: student-facing initiatives that strengthen mentoring relationships and graduate student success.
What the Fellows do
Building on recommendations from the Spring 2025 Faculty Advisory Council, the Fellows partner with the Graduate College and campus collaborators to:
- Advance research-informed mentoring and advising practices
- Design and deliver faculty development opportunities
- Co-create student-facing tools, workshops, and resources
- Coordinate with advisory councils to gather perspectives and prioritize needs
Faculty Advisory Council on Graduate Mentoring & Advising (2025-2027)
Purpose
To provide faculty perspectives and guidance that inform the Graduate College’s mentoring and advising priorities, programming, and resources.
Activities
- Advise on faculty development offerings and mentoring best practices
- Review and provide feedback on mentoring tools and guidance for programs
- Surface departmental needs and promising practices
- Coordinate with the Faculty Fellow for Faculty Development
Faculty Council Membership (2025-2027)
Student Advisory Council on Graduate Mentoring & Advising (2026-2027)
Purpose
Student Advisory Council members will help to center student experiences in efforts to improve graduate mentoring and advising at Boise State by providing feedback on mentoring materials and events, and collaborating with the Graduate College on student-focused mentoring initiatives. The 2026-2027 Student Advisory Council will focus on implementing a Peer Mentoring Program for graduate students.
Student Council Membership (2026-2027)
Upcoming Workshops
Check back soon for Fall 2026 workshops!
Related Mentoring & Advising Resources
- For Students: Graduate Advising & Mentoring: What You Need to Know
- For Faculty: Graduate Advising & Mentoring: A Guide for Faculty