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Chemistry’s James Vyvyan named an Outstanding Mentor by the Council on Undergraduate Research 

Western becomes first institution with multiple faculty awardees 

by Mikayla King

WWU Communications

WWU Professor of Chemistry James Vyvyan

WWU Professor of Chemistry James Vyvyan was named the Chemistry Division of the Council on Undergraduate Research’s Outstanding Mentor Award for 2025.  

Western is the first institution, regardless of size, to have two chemistry faculty recognized with the award since it was established in 2019. Vyvyan joins Professor of Chemistry Mark Bussell, who was awarded Outstanding Mentor in 2022, to have attained this honor. 

The award recognizes exceptional undergraduate mentorship and advising by chemistry faculty with at least 10 years of experience. Awardees are chosen based on their history of transformative mentorship of undergraduates in chemistry research projects, through academic coursework and in support of diversity, equity and inclusion education and research. 

“The ChemCUR Award is partly a testament to the quality of Western STEM students,” Vyvyan said. “The quality of our future will depend on the scientific breakthroughs we collectively discover. I’m passionate about training the next generation of chemists because you never know who will make those discoveries – they all have the potential!” 

The best part of his job is being able to watch former students succeed as chemists, Vyvyan said.  

“It is gratifying to see the successes of my former students and thinking that I had even a small impact on their development as chemists and as people,” he said. “Being recognized as a mentor means that I have done the most important part of my job well – I’m proud of that.” 

Chemistry Chair Gregory O’Neil said Vyvyan’s dedication to student success has left a lasting impact on the next generations of chemists.  

“Professor Vyvyan’s commitment to undergraduate research is nothing short of inspiring,” he said. “His dedication to mentorship and the lasting impact he has on his students make him truly deserving of this Outstanding Mentorship Award.” 

Vyvyan will receive a plaque, funding, and a letter of commendation from the CUR in recognition of his award. 

Learn more about Vyvyan and the undergraduate research happening in his lab by visiting the Vyvyan Research Group homepage.  

Mikayla King (‘17) covers the College of Science and Engineering and Woodring College of Education for University Communications. Reach out to her with story ideas at kingm24@wwu.edu.