Manik Ahuja, Assistant Professor in the East Tennessee State University College of Public Health Department of Health Services Management and Policy, is the recipient of the University’s 2024 Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award. The university celebrated Excellence at the Graduate School Awards ceremony on April 5, 2024.
“Dr. Ahuja has had a major influence on the professional pursuits of students,” said Dean Wykoff. “Since joining ETSU, 13 different students have co-authored seven peer-reviewed publications with Dr. Ahuja while 23 students have co-authored 19 presentations at local/regional, state, and national scientific conferences.”
This award recognizes distinguished achievements by a graduate faculty member in mentoring graduate students. Criteria include a record of facilitating student learning; role model for integrity and excellence; consistent guidance of students, encouraging them to complete their programs of study in a timely way; significant influence on the academic and professional pursuits of students such as funded research, publications and presentations; creative solutions to problems; and demonstrated success as a mentor.
“Exemplifying his commitment to mentoring, Dr. Ahuja established the ETSU Mentored Substance Use Research (EMSUR) training program in 2021 and has led the program since then,” said Dr. Amal Khoury, Chair of the Department of Health Services Management and Policy. “A total of 24 ETSU students from across disciplines have been paired with faculty mentors to train in substance use research.”
A student/mentee said, “What sets Dr. Ahuja apart is not only his exceptional skills as an educator but also the profound impact he has had directly in supporting the personal and professional growth of his students. One of the most memorable examples of Dr. Ahuja’s dedication to his students occurred when I presented at the Appalachian Student Research Forum. Feeling nervous about my presentation, I reached out to Dr. Ahuja for support. Instead of merely offering words of encouragement, he attended my presentation in-person and supported me throughout the process. This boosted my confidence and underscored his genuine commitment to his students’ success.”
Another student commented, “Dr. Ahuja’s commitment to personal integrity, high ethical standards, and professional excellence sets a positive example for all who have the privilege of working with him. He consistently went above and beyond to ensure that we had the support and resources needed to thrive.”
“We are fortunate to have a large number of highly motivated students at ETSU across multiple disciplines who are striving to reduce health disparities, advance science, make a positive impact in the community and become future leaders in their field,” concluded Dr. Ahuja. “Each student has a unique path and journey, and hearing their story and understanding how we can maximize their potential is highly rewarding for faculty mentors.”