Jessica Nina Lester is the recipient of the American Psychological Association’s Division 5 2024 Distinguished Contributions to Teaching and Mentoring in Qualitative Inquiry Award.

Lester, Professor and Department Chair of Counseling and Educational Psychology, said she felt truly humbled to receive the award and is grateful to those who nominated her.

“Throughout my career, I have greatly benefited from mentors and wonderful teachers within my own disciplinary area. They have often been guides on the side, cheering me on and believing in my contributions. They’ve often shown up at the right moment, in the most meaningful of ways. I’ve always hoped to follow suit and am grateful for this recognition – as it’s a reminder to carry on with mentoring and teaching in qualitative inquiry,” she added.

The award recognizes demonstrated excellence in teaching and mentoring within the field of qualitative inquiry.