Title: Mohinder Singh Seehra Lecture: "The Mentorship Playbook: How to Find Guides, Lead Others, and Thrive in Grad School"

Description: 

Navigating graduate school can feel overwhelming, especially in these times, but building strong and strategic mentorship connections is key to thriving. In this workshop, you will discover actionable strategies for identifying the right mentors, cultivating mutually beneficial relationships, and stepping confidently into mentorship roles yourself. You will gain practical tools to overcome modern academic challenges, advocate for your career goals, and build a foundation for long-term success. 

Elaine Howard Ecklund is a sociologist and author exploring how religious and ethical commitments shape work, leadership, and public life. She holds the Herbert S. Autrey Chair in Social Sciences at Rice University, where she serves as Professor of Sociology and directs the Boniuk Institute for the Study and Advancement of Religious Tolerance. Her research highlights how pluralism can serve as a vital asset in professional life. 

Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2026 

Time: 8:00 am – 10:30 am, Format: In-person

Location: Lair 242 Rhododendron Room (breakfast and workshop)

To Register: Please email: wvuadvance@mail.wvu.edu. 

The events are organized by the WVU ADVANCE Center, sponsored by the Department of Physics and Astronomy, and co-sponsored by the Department of Sociology and Anthropology. The Mohindar Singh Seehra Endowment was created to provide funds to host a guest speaker to explore topics related to the challenges involved in combining and balancing a professional career with a family life.