Prof. Dan Mennill has received national recognition for his contributions to mentoring young scientists. The Jamie Smith Memorial Mentoring Award was presented to Dr. Mennill at the annual meeting of the Society of Canadian Ornithologists in Peoria, Illinois.

“Jamie Smith was a huge figure in ornithology in Canada, mentoring a generation of outstanding young ornithologists,” explained the professor in the Department of Integrative Biology. “To win this mentoring award in his name is a great honour for me.”

The Jamie Smith Memorial Mentoring Award honours established ornithologists in recognition of displayed excellence in mentoring a new generation of professional or amateur biologists. It is conferred annually by the Society of Canadian Ornithologists, Canada’s national organization for the study of birds.

Danielle Ethier, president of the Society of Canadian Ornithologists, presented the award. Dr. Ethier says Mennill’s willingness to guide and involve undergraduate students in the publication process is a testament to his unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of researchers.

“As a mentor, Dr. Mennill’s commitment is truly exceptional, going beyond the typical expectations of a research supervisor.

“An example of this commitment is Dr. Mennill’s ongoing collaboration on a research paper with a group of undergraduate students who participated in a field course under his leadership. This initiative not only highlights his dedication to fostering a collaborative research environment but also underscores his tireless efforts to engage and empower aspiring researchers at an early stage in their academic journey.”

Fourteen of Mennill’s peers and students nominated him for this award.

“I am deeply thankful to the Society of Canadian Ornithologists, and to members of my research team for nominating me for this award. Like so many academic activities, the research efforts in our lab are a team effort,” said Mennill.

“It is such a pleasure to be able to work with an outstanding team of undergraduates, graduates, and postdocs at University of Windsor.”