Faculty mentors and volunteers are essential to the McNair Scholars Program, offering guidance, research support, and academic encouragement to help students pursue graduate education. Your involvement strengthens scholar success and expands opportunities for first-generation and underrepresented students. This page highlights why your partnership matters, what you gain, and the many ways you can engage with McNair.
Why We Need Faculty Mentors & Volunteers
Faculty and volunteers provide essential support that directly impacts scholar development and confidence. Mentors guide students through research design, academic writing, and graduate school preparation. Volunteers contribute through workshops, application reviews, and community-building efforts that help scholars thrive. Together, you help create an environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired.
The Benefits Of Supporting Our Scholars
Participating in McNair offers many professional and personal benefits, including:
- Opportunities to mentor motivated and high-achieving students.
- Collaborative research partnerships that can lead to publications or presentations.
- Service contributions that support promotion and tenure materials.
- A meaningful role in advancing equity and access in higher education.
- The satisfaction of helping scholars reach significant academic milestones.
Ready To Get Involved?
We welcome new faculty mentors and volunteers throughout the year. To express your interest or learn more:
- Submit the McNair interest form.
- Contact the McNair Scholars Program office for upcoming opportunities and expectations.
- Explore current research or mentoring needs to find the best fit for your expertise.
- Your support plays an important role in strengthening scholar success and preparing the next generation of researchers and leaders. We look forward to partnering with you.
