Senior Selection highlights the mentors behind the Mastodon experience

This year, Purdue University Fort Wayne launched a new graduating senior recognition initiative called Senior Selection, giving members of the Class of 2026 the opportunity to recognize faculty and staff members who made a meaningful impact on their college experience.

Through Senior Selection, graduating seniors were invited to identify the mentors, advocates, encouragers, and supporters who helped shape their time at PFW and contributed to their success both inside and outside the classroom. The responses painted a powerful picture of the Purdue Fort Wayne experience, one rooted in connection, support, mentorship, and belonging. Students highlighted faculty and staff members who challenged them academically, encouraged them personally, supported them professionally, and helped them feel at home on campus.

Abby Scholz recognized Patricia Eber for the care and compassion she consistently showed students in the Human Services program.

"Pat has always been a huge help to me and many other human services majors," Scholz shared. "She has given us a lot of useful advice and tips when we will go into the human services field. She has always been very kind, patient, and compassionate toward our education and understanding."

Abhisar Anand nominated Dr. Beomjin Kim for serving as a mentor and role model throughout his time at PFW.

"[Dr. Kim] been a great mentor to me and has helped me in various cases come across obstacles," Anand wrote. "He has always directed me to the best resources so that I can do my best."

Alana Longardner credited Dr. Jody Ross with helping her build confidence in herself academically and professionally.

"Dr. Ross has instilled in me an academic and professional confidence in myself that I have never had before," Longardner said. "I am so grateful to have been mentored by Dr. Ross and to have gained expertise from one of clinical psychology's best."

Allison Hegerfeld recognized Dr. Cheu-jey Lee for creating a classroom environment that inspired growth and success

"[Dr. Lee] was always encouraging students to grow, made learning fun, and was supportive in making me a successful teacher," Hegerfeld wrote.

Brittany Kaufman nominated Sheena Choi after Choi encouraged her to pursue publication opportunities tied to her honors project work.

"I had never been published before, and her belief in my work gave me both the confidence and opportunity to achieve this milestone," Kaufman shared. "I am truly grateful for her guidance and mentorship."

For Colten Gasson, Troy Tonner stood out for his commitment to students and his passion for engineering education.

"One of the things I love the most about Troy is how he values every single student and encourages them to put their best foot forward in all aspects of life," Gasson wrote. "Mr. Tonner brings a positive attitude every day and genuinely wants to see each of his students succeed."

Ella Branneman recognized Yan Ma for his mentorship during research projects over the past two years.

"He has been incredibly supportive of my academic journey here at PFW, and I am grateful for his guidance and dedication to my growth as a student," Branneman shared.

Isaac Clark and Ryan Moyer both nominated Dr. Arjun Sharma for his engaging teaching style and ability to make complex material approachable.

"This professor will not proceed with material until he's sure each student confidently confirms they understand it," Clark wrote. "His analogies are extremely helpful and he makes the material fun to learn."

Moyer added, "Dr. Sharma gives great feedback and is very good at explaining complex topics while making lectures interesting and engaging."

Jack Mills recognized Joe Francis for the mentorship and leadership opportunities that shaped both his academic and personal growth.

"I can confidently say that I would not be where I am today, both professionally and personally, without his mentorship and guidance," Mills wrote. "Through his encouragement and support, I have developed both the confidence and skills to lead and serve others within our academic community."

Jacob Heffelmire recognized Brenda Diaz for the support she provided throughout his college journey.

"They helped me plan and execute my entire college education," Heffelmire shared. "When issues arise they are the first person I contact to get it solved."

Justice Hillery nominated Dr. Amy Perkins for the inspiration and encouragement she provided students.

"She's dedicated to her work and is supportive of all students, sparking inspiration in their lives, myself included," Hillery wrote.

Katelynn McPhee recognized Liliya Frolova for her mentorship and support in both academics and research.

"She's guided me so much in every area of my life and has supported me in my growth as a researcher, medicinal chemist, and woman in chemistry," McPhee wrote. "I wouldn't be who I am without her unwavering belief in me."

Laura Hartmus nominated Professor Karla Zepeda-Wenger for the meaningful relationships and mentorship she developed with students.

"She celebrates my successes with me, and she is incredibly supportive of me, both academically and in my personal life," Hartmus shared.

Miranda Thomas recognized James Gabbard for helping her grow creatively and professionally in photography.

"He gave challenges on assignments, which allowed me to grow in photography tremendously," Thomas wrote.

Nikolas Travis nominated Jeffery Cline for his dedication to student success and his ability to make economics relatable and engaging.

"He doesn't just focus on theory; he explains concepts using everyday scenarios that make the material easier to understand and remember," Travis shared. "It is clear that he genuinely wants his students to succeed."

Rebecca Adeniyi recognized Onie Mesch for creating a welcoming and supportive environment.

"She's kind of like the glue that keeps everyone together," Adeniyi wrote. "I think she should be celebrated."

Rebekah Landstoffer nominated Michael Reffeitt for connecting students with industry professionals and emphasizing practical, real-world learning.

"He taught me the importance of being a valuable contributor to society by focusing more on real-world skills rather than only textbook knowledge," Landstoffer shared.

Stephanie Case recognized Dr. Mark Masters for encouraging her to pursue her passions and challenge herself.

"He always inspired me to keep going and pushed me toward my passions when some were trying to push them away," Case wrote.

Steven Graham recognized both Dr. Vaidya Saunak and Dr. Jun Ma for their ongoing support and mentorship.

"Both of these professors have maintained deep influence in my learning and growth and continuously offer their support without bias or resistance," Graham shared. "I have better navigated my college experience thanks to them."

Triston Stevens nominated Ranesha Lillard for the life-changing support and encouragement she provided during his time at PFW.

"She saw something in me when nobody did and provided me with the resources, guidance, and support I needed to succeed," Stevens wrote. "I am forever grateful."

Victoria Babalola recognized Williams Russell for his engaging teaching style and commitment to preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

"He is smart and knows how to teach and also prepares us for the outside world," Babalola shared.

As Purdue Fort Wayne continues Senior Selection in the years ahead, these stories serve as a reminder of the lasting impact faculty and staff members have on the lives of students every day. The inaugural initiative highlighted not only academic excellence, but also the relationships, encouragement, and sense of belonging that help define the Mastodon experience.