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.jpg "Adel Pezeshki Earns Oklahoma State Award for Graduate Student Mentorship")
Bonnie Johnson
June 11, 2026
Media ArticleOklahoma State University associate professor Adel Pezeshki has been recognized for his dedication to graduate student success, earning the Excellence in Graduate Student Advising and Mentoring Award during the Ferguson College of Agriculture Scholarships and Awards Banquet held in March.
Since joining the Department of Animal and Food Sciences in 2016, Pezeshki has served as the primary advisor for eight doctoral students and two master’s students while also contributing as a committee member for 25 graduate students across various academic programs.
“Receiving this award is both meaningful and humbling,” Pezeshki said. “Mentorship is a task I take very seriously, and seeing my efforts recognized is very rewarding. I see this award not only as a personal honor, but also as a reflection of the dedication and accomplishments of all the hard work of my students.”
Pezeshki emphasizes developing independent professionals by encouraging scholarly excellence, ethical conduct, and critical thinking. Through weekly meetings, he challenges students to interpret their research findings and identify new contributions to their field.
“We have weekly meetings and discuss their data,” Pezeshki said. “One thing I always ask my students is how they interpret their results. You can look at prior studies or publications, but what’s new to your research? That’s kind of challenging.”
As students gain experience, Pezeshki gradually provides greater independence while also encouraging them to strengthen communication and writing skills through university workshops and classes.
“The most rewarding part is seeing how they are evolving over time,” Pezeshki said. “To see that they entered the program with very little experience in communication and technical skills, and by the time they graduate, they know many skills to take into the future.”
University leaders also praised his mentorship. “Dr. Pezeshki embodies what true graduate mentorship should be: intentional, individualized and committed to student growth,” said Cynda Clary, associate dean for academic programs.
“His dedication to preparing students not just as scientists, but as leaders and professionals, is evident in the success and confidence of those he mentors.”
Photo by: okstate.edu
