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Dr. Kelly Taylor named MSU Distinguished Mentor Award recipient

By MSU Public Relations | Feb 28, 2025

Dr. Kelly Taylor

Dr. Kelly Taylor

 

MURRAY, Ky. 鈥 Dr. Kelly Taylor, assistant professor and academic fieldwork coordinator for the occupational therapy program is the recipient of the 19th annual University Distinguished Mentor Award as selected by an intercampus committee. 

All nine nominations were highly competitive, according to the awards chair, Dr. Amanda Joyce, associate professor of psychology. 

鈥淢urray State has an incredibly dedicated faculty who care deeply about the success of students,鈥 said Joyce. 鈥淒r. Taylor should take great pride in rising to the top of such a talented pool of candidates.鈥 

In the evaluation process, committee members look for impact on students鈥 educations, careers and lives, as well as significant application of the student research, scholarly or creative work as evidenced by publications, presentations, performances and exhibits. 

Abby Morris, a student of Taylor鈥檚, said that 鈥淒r. Taylor embodies what it means to be a distinguished mentor. She is dedicated to helping her mentees navigate their current educational experiences and future career paths and is a large contributor to guiding and developing the competent, confident and enthusiastic graduates of the occupational therapy program.鈥

Another student, Lily Boswell, said of Taylor, 鈥淲hether she is leading a graduate-level class, advising students for future courses within the program, discussing potential fieldwork opportunities or guiding students through the research process, she is motivated by a desire to see students grow into the best clinicians and individuals.鈥

In response to being named award recipient, Taylor said, "I am grateful to be recognized as this year鈥檚 University Distinguished Mentor Award recipient. I have had the opportunity to mentor dozens of occupational therapy students across classroom curriculum, fieldwork education, scholarly projects and advising. I work to cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment that scaffolds students鈥 learning while also empowering their autonomy. One of my professional joys is mentoring students鈥 research projects; it is through this experience that students get to contribute to the body of knowledge related to occupational therapy practice, education and policy. I am excited to continue mentoring the next generation of evidence-based practitioners."

This award will be presented at the Faculty Recognition Banquet on April 17 as part of the annual campus Spring Scholars Week celebration. Taylor will receive a $1,000 stipend and have her name engraved on a permanent plaque displayed in the Office of the Provost. 

The award is coordinated by the Office of Research and Creative Activity and the Office of the Provost. The next round of nominations will be due toward the end of January 2026. Visit  for more information.

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