Faculty and Staff Recognition Program 2020 - 17

PRESIDENT'S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE
AS A GRADUATE RESEARCH MENTOR

KIMBERLY A. KLINE, PH.D.
Kimberly A. Kline, professor of higher education administration, possesses a
passion, motivation, and determination to support graduate students' interest
and success in research. The quality of her mentoring results in a lifelong appreciation for inquiry and
knowledge creation. Former students often note the continued impact that their research experience at
Buffalo State has had on their professional life.
The higher education and student affairs administration master's program offers several opportunities
for students to engage in research, including independent study and the formal master's research
project. Since Kline arrived at Buffalo State in 2006, she has mentored more than 50 graduate
students through a research experience, resulting in student publications, presentations, and the
pursuit of continued education and terminal degrees.
Many students attest to the transformative nature of their research and mentoring experience with
Kline, noting her accessibility, individual level of attention, and enduring support that allowed them
to build confidence in their skills. With Kline, students feel comfortable expressing the challenges
they face in their research, which leads to a greater focus on the problem-solving process and,
ultimately, a better final project. Kline encourages students to share their research with others,
through presentations within the department and at the college's Graduate Research Fair, or
presentations or publications to broader communities.
Kline demonstrates a compassion, patience, and belief in each of her students, which fuels their
motivation during tough times and helps push them to the finish line at graduation. She believes
in their abilities and potential until they believe in themselves.
Nominator: Amy B. Wilson, Chair and Associate Professor, Higher Education Administration

Faculty and Staff Recognition Program 2020

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