Karen Haley receives PSU’s Graduate Mentoring Excellence Award

Karen Haley, EdD, recipient of PSU's 2024 Graduate Mentoring Excellence Award.

Portland State University (PSU) recently recognized Dr. Karen Haley, professor of Educational Leadership and Policy, with the 2024 Graduate Mentorship Excellence Award - a top honor acknowledging PSU faculty members who provide outstanding mentorship to graduate students and postdoctoral scholars engaged in research at the university.

Since 2011, Haley has taught in the Postsecondary, Adult, and Continuing Education master's program and the Post-Secondary Specialization of the doctoral program in the College of Education.

"Of all the recognitions that faculty might receive, the PSU Graduate Mentoring Excellence award is the one that means the world to me," Haley said.

"In my faculty role, I care most about working with both master's and doctoral students. In fact, mentoring is a natural extension of my research on higher education career paths and professional development. Helping students see their own potential is my primary mentoring joy."

Haley has led the last two doctoral cohorts as the program coordinator and, in this leadership role, is essentially a mentor to all. For the current cohort, she has served as formal advisor and dissertation chair for ten of 17 students and is a committee member for an additional six.

"This is an unrivaled advising load in our doctoral programs," said Chris Borgmeier, professor of Special Education and doctoral program director for the College of Education.

Haley's dedication extends beyond the doctoral cohorts to the master's programs, where she advises an average of 42 students per year.

Borgmeier notes that the range of leadership positions held by Haley's alumni, and the organizations they work for, illustrates her effectiveness and the widespread impact of her mentorship on Oregon Higher Education and beyond.

But perhaps the best measure of Haley's success is heard through the voices of former students who attest to her exceptional mentorship; describing her as supportive, compassionate and instrumental in their academic and professional growth.

"Dr. Haley was a champion for all of us," said doctoral alumnus Alex Accetta, executive director of recreation and wellness at Stanford University. "She expressed great humanity in her dealings with each member of our cohort. She met students where they were and recognized their unique stories and situations. In doing so, she was able to deftly make people feel valued while also pushing for excellence, a very difficult balance to achieve."

Haley's extraordinary commitment and steady support are repeatedly described as exemplifying intellectual leadership, professional responsibility, integrity, sensitivity and respect.

"Karen was personally such a support to me as I persevered to get through the program in three years while working full time and being a parent of young daughters," said Becky Sanchez, alumna and assistant dean of Student Success for the School of Business at PSU.

"She was patient and kind when I missed my deadlines but she held me accountable and reminded me of my own goals. She was a true coach and cheerleader. She helped me see that I could do research, and when I doubted my abilities, she reminded me how far I had come."

Haley is known for going above and beyond, evidenced by initiatives like the Saturday writing sessions and specialized classes she created to support student needs and interests.

Some students are drawn to PSU specifically for Haley's reputation as a mentor.

"Dr. Haley was the reason I applied for PSU's Ed.D. program in the first place," said Kim Stave, a 2020 doctoral graduate.

After a former student made the introduction, Haley invited Stave to meet for coffee to talk about her research interests and aspirations. "She graciously listened to my unorganized ramblings about my dreams and fears and answered my endless questions with kind assurance that I wasn't the only one feeling this way and that I could, indeed, do it," Stave recalled.

It was thanks to Haley's encouragement, she said, that she felt the hope and confidence to pursue a doctoral degree. But Haley's influence extends far beyond the classroom. Many of her alumni attribute their professional achievements and success to her guidance and support.

"My current position speaks to Dr. Haley's impact on her students' professional lives. I am the director of the Teaching and Learning Center, a faculty position, at Oregon Health & Science University. Last year, I was promoted to associate professor," said alumna Lisa Hatfield.

"In addition to serving as my dissertation advisor and mentor, Dr. Haley and I have published together. Throughout these roles, she has shown extraordinary commitment and effectiveness to me and to whatever project we are working on," Hatfield added.

Prior to PSU, Haley's career in higher education included work in orientation, residence life, student activities, career services and retention. In the private sector, Haley also worked in publishing and bookstore management.

"As Haley prepares for retirement at the end of June, her profound legacy of mentorship and dedication to student success will undoubtedly endure through the achievements and influence of her former students," said Tina Peterman, professor and interim dean of the College of Education. "Her absence will be deeply felt."

Haley said that receiving this prestigious award is a fabulous way to wrap up her career.

"I would like to thank all the students who have been my advisees and in my classes for joining me on our mutual journey of learning."