The Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) is pleased to welcome Dr. Susan Mendoza of Grand Valley State University and Dr. Binod Tiwari of California State University, Fullerton to its Board of Directors.
Mendoza and Tiwari each bring a unique perspective and deep commitment to advancing undergraduate research across diverse institutional and community settings. They have both helped advance student-centered research initiatives, faculty mentorship, and institutional collaboration. Each new board member brings a wealth of experience and perspective, from Tiwari’s leadership in engineering and mentorship of hundreds of undergraduate researchers to Mendoza’s innovative work advancing interdisciplinary and community-engaged approaches to undergraduate research.
When asked what being a part of the CUR Board of Directors means to them, they answered:
Mendoza stated, “I am honored to serve on the CUR Board of Directors and give back to a community that has profoundly shaped my work in undergraduate research. Undergraduate research is a transformative experience where students learn to become scholars, innovators, and engaged citizens. I am excited to work alongside CUR leadership and membership as higher education evolves, ensuring we continue advancing understanding of how undergraduate research cultivates student thriving.”
Tiwari goes on to answer, “I am very excited to be elected to the CUR Board of Directors and feel honored with this responsibility where I will be able to collaborate with CUR’s leadership as well as the CUR community toward a common goal of supporting the transformative power of research experiences for undergraduates through dedicated leadership, advocacy, and service. I thank the CUR membership for this opportunity.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Drs. Mendoza and Tiwari to the CUR Board of Directors,” said Lindsay Currie, Executive Officer of the Council on Undergraduate Research. “Each brings a deep commitment to student success, collaborative scholarship, and inclusive excellence in undergraduate research. Their leadership experiences across diverse institutional settings will strengthen CUR’s ability to advocate for and expand high-impact undergraduate research opportunities nationwide.”
Explore who is on the CUR Board of Directors here >>
Founded in 1978, the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) focuses on providing high-quality and collaborative undergraduate research, scholarly, and creative activity. Among the many activities and networking opportunities that CUR provides, the organization also offers support for the professional growth of faculty and administrators through expert-designed institutes, conferences, and a wide-range of volunteer positions. The CUR community, made up of nearly 700 institutions and 13,000 individuals, continues to provide a platform for discussion and other resources related to mentoring, connecting, and creating relationships centered around undergraduate research. CUR’s advocacy efforts are also a large portion of its work as they strive to strengthen support for undergraduate research. Its continued growth in connections with representatives, private foundations, government agencies, and campuses world-wide provides value to its members and gives voice to undergraduate research. CUR is committed to inclusivity and diversity in all of its activities and our community.
CUR focuses on giving a voice to undergraduate research with learning through doing. It provides connections to a multitude of campuses and government agencies, all while promoting networking and professional growth to its community.
