Our very own Kris Christensen was recently nominated by GES students for the Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year award! While university-level accolades are prestigious, Christensen finds this specific nomination to be uniquely humbling and deeply appreciated. To the department, it serves as a testament to the personal impact a mentor can have, validating her dedicated approach to student development beyond the traditional classroom.
At the heart of Christensen’s mentoring philosophy is the steadfast belief that every student is capable of conducting high-level research. By encouraging them to dive into research as early as possible, Christensen helps students unlock and pursue academic inquiries well beyond those possible in a standard lecture course. This approach prioritizes hands-on, applied learning opportunities that enrich students’ CU Denver experience and empower them to succeed across all their academic endeavors.
In Christensen’s view, the definition of success in a mentoring relationship transcends final grades or quantitative metrics. Instead, success is measured by a student’s self-realization and their ability to find personal value in their work. True achievement occurs when a student can critically evaluate their own performance, identifying both their strengths and areas where they could have pushed further. This focus on self-evaluation ensures that the research process is not just about the final data, but about the long-term growth and confidence of the individual researcher.
Christensen’s ability to relate to a diverse student body is rooted in a multifaceted academic background that spans urban studies and social sciences. Her interdisciplinary perspective allows for a more empathetic and versatile mentoring style, meeting students where they are regardless of their specific field of interest. By drawing on these varied experiences, Christensen creates an inclusive environment where all students feel supported as they navigate the complexities of a global society and pursue their own unique paths towards the future.