2022 Fall STAR Educator Recipient: Erzsebet Kokovay, PhD
Erzsebet Kokovay, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies
Nomination Submission:
We enthusiastically nominate Dr. Erzsebet Kokovay, an exceptional innovator in course design, an exemplary mentor/role model, and a creative, proficient Masters-program director. Shortly after joining our faculty, she recognized a curricular void in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine caused by departure of the faculty who previously directed this course. Erzsi re-designed (and still directs) this unique course in a critically-important research area. She introduced student-directed discussion sessions and made Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine a student-favorite and a state-of-the-art class. Erzsi is also an exemplary role model, encouraging trainees at all levels to reach their full potential by allowing them independence, yet without letting them meander far off course. She has successfully mentored many trainees at all levels, including 8 MS/PhD students and 3 postdocs. In every case, Erzsi and the trainee design a research program ideally suited to their individual educational needs. Given that her research involves the regulation of complex neuronal stem cell differentiation, this is particularly impressive. Trainees who left her lab are excelling in their academic positions; testament to Erzsi’s successful mentoring! Lastly, melding her skills in curriculum with her talents in mentoring, Dr. Kokovay excels as the Chair of COGS for our MS program. Her accomplishments have been wide-ranging and the pandemic has brought out her best. Since our Masters students have only 2 years to complete both their didactic coursework and thesis research projects, this has been a challenging time. Yet, Erzsi was there, providing the logistic, scientific, and emotional support needed. This year’s cohort of students will complete their degree requirements in two years – great for a normal year, but truly outstanding this year! Erzsi is highly deserving of AES recognition; she is a Star in the lab, in the classroom, and in program administration.