Christy Ball receives Distinguished Mentoring Award

Each year, the College of Science honors exceptional faculty and advisors in six award categories who have made significant contributions to advancing the teaching and advising mission of the University of Arizona. We are excited to share Christy Ball - Associate Professor of Practice in Psychology - was selected as one of this year's recipients:

Distinguished Mentoring Award: Christy Ball, Associate Professor of Practice, Psychology

Dr. Christy Ball is an Associate Professor of Practice in the Department of Psychology, where she has built her career around helping students find their path in science. With 20 years of teaching experience, she mentors undergraduates at every stage, from their first semester on campus to the moment they accept an offer to graduate school.

As Director of Undergraduate Career Development, Faculty Advisor for Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, and Chair of the department’s Professional Development Committee, Christy has designed programs that support students’ professional development and foster their success in scientific careers. In her role as Chair, she also organizes professional development workshops for faculty and research staff.

With a focus on improving retention and graduation rates, Christy co-directs the Undergraduate Psychology Exploration Program (UPEP), which, over the last four years, has paired more than 900 first-year students with peer mentors. Additionally, she developed the Psychology Career Curriculum. This four-course sequence helps students gain research experience, prepare application materials, and confidently pursue graduate study and scientific careers, launching the next generation of scientists.

"My mentoring approach is grounded in the understanding that each student has unique goals and challenges," Christy explains. "I work to provide individualized guidance that helps students navigate their path and prepare for life beyond graduation." 

The College of Science recognizes award recipients at the annual Teaching, Advising, and Entrepreneurial Award Reception held in September. See the full list of Award Winners here