AAAS Mentor Awards

The AAAS Mentor Awards, administered by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, are presented annually to individuals who have made exceptional contributions in mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds in science and engineering. These awards underscore the association’s commitment to increasing diversity within the STEM fields and celebrate impactful mentors whose dedication has significantly enhanced the academic and professional trajectories of their mentees. The awards are divided into two categories: the Lifetime Mentor Award and the Mentor Award. Both awards aim to recognize mentors who have guided a significant number of underrepresented students—including women of all racial or ethnic groups, African American, Native American, and Hispanic men, and individuals with disabilities—towards earning doctoral degrees in STEM fields. Nominees are expected to have not only directly mentored students but also helped foster an inclusive academic climate within departments, colleges, or institutions. Evidence of this influence can be provided through both quantitative data and qualitative testimonials from students and colleagues. The Lifetime Mentor Award is intended for individuals with at least 25 years of mentoring experience, while the Mentor Award recognizes those with fewer than 25 years in such roles. Each recipient receives a $5,000 monetary prize, a commemorative plaque, complimentary registration, and reimbursement for travel and lodging expenses to attend the AAAS Annual Meeting. These recognitions serve not only as accolades but also as incentives to cultivate inclusive and supportive environments in academia. Eligibility is open to all individuals, regardless of nationality or citizenship, who have mentored at a U.S. institution and are living at the time of nomination. Nomination packets must be submitted online and must include a citation, a rationale document, a curriculum vitae, lists of mentored students, and up to eight letters of support. Nominees can be submitted up to three times and all materials must be in English. Submissions for the 2026 cycle open on April 15, 2025, and must be completed by June 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET. Nomination procedures and document templates are provided online, and alternative submission via postal mail is available by contacting the AAAS Awards team directly at awards@aaas.org. This ensures accessible pathways for individuals across various disciplines and institutions to recognize and honor impactful mentorship. Contact for the award is available through the AAAS headquarters located at 1200 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005, with general inquiries directed to 202-326-6400 or via the email address provided. The AAAS also emphasizes its ethical standards and commitment to inclusivity, encouraging nominations from diverse backgrounds and emphasizing that all awardees must uphold professional integrity.

Submissions should clearly document both quantitative impact (e.g., number of PhDs awarded) and qualitative outcomes (e.g., letters of support). Prior nominations must be disclosed in the rationale.