The Graduate School is delighted to announce Brittany Shelton, assistant professor in the Department of Public Health, as the recipient of the Spring 2026 Outstanding Doctoral Mentoring Award. This honor reflects the heartfelt nominations submitted by doctoral students who have experienced firsthand her exceptional ability to support, encourage, and empower graduate students through individualized mentorship. She has created a welcoming environment where students feel safe to learn, ask questions, and grow without fear of judgment. 

Doctoral students consistently describe leaving Dr. Shelton’s office feeling heard, supported, and uplifted, no matter the challenge that brought them there. Whether navigating imposter syndrome, family responsibilities, or other obstacles along the path to success, students say her guidance helps them feel lighter, more hopeful, and better equipped to move forward. Dr. Shelton takes time to understand each student’s unique circumstances, offering thoughtful, meaningful support tailored to their needs. Her mentorship has a lasting impact not only on students’ academic development, but also on their professional growth through research opportunities, career guidance, and encouragement that helps them thrive while at UT and beyond. 

The Outstanding Doctoral Mentoring Award recognizes the vital role mentorship plays in graduate student success. Through this award, the Graduate School celebrates the importance of mentoring and honors faculty members who exemplify its highest ideals. We are deeply grateful to Brittany Shelton for her outstanding commitment to the success and well-being of graduate students at UT.