Provost's Award for Graduate Research/Creative Mentoring
Christine Foreman
Christine Foreman, associate dean for student success and professor of chemical and biological engineering in Montana State University’s Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering, has won the 2026 Provost’s Award for Graduate Research/Creativity Mentoring. The criteria for the award include the number of students mentored, a record of excellence and effectiveness in activities, and innovation in graduate student mentoring. The award carries a $2,000 honorarium.
“Dr. Christine Foreman leads a world-class research program with seven current Ph.D. students and one master’s student while simultaneously contributing 50% of her time to college-level administration,” wrote Brett Gunnink, dean of the engineering college, in a letter recommending Foreman for the award. “Despite these demands, she consistently provides exceptional mentorship, guidance and support to her students. Dr. Foreman embodies the highest ideals of graduate education, and I cannot think of a more deserving candidate for this award.”
Foreman is a first-generation college student who recognizes the unique challenges first-generation students can face, Gunnink said. She is also a mentor of, and advocate for, women and minorities – 75% of the 30 graduate committees she has participated in have been female graduate students.
"I have been truly grateful for the many ways she champions others by embracing and celebrating their ideas” wrote one current graduate student. “Christine is a relentless advocate for her students, helping them pursue their research interests and achieve their goals while also seeking opportunities for their career and development. She fully embodies her identities as a female scientist and first-generation college student, creating opportunities and uplifting the work of others.”