Monica Miles to Participate in New ASEE Mentee Program

By Elizabeth Egan 

Published January 22, 2024

Monica Miles, an assistant professor in the Department of Engineering Education, has been accepted into the inaugural cohort of the American Society for Engineering Education’s (ASEE) Minority Mentorship Program (MMP) as a mentee. 

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“They are responding to our collective needs as women of color in engineering education. Through their efforts, I can be one of the women that 'lift as we climb ”
Monica Miles, Assistant Professor of Engineering Education
Monica Miles.

Miles will have access to a nine-month mentorship experience that includes bi-weekly personalized career coaching sessions, over 18 mentor-led workshops in Google Classroom and two virtual community of practice meetings.

“DEE is thrilled that Monica was accepted into ASEE’s Minority Mentorship Program, giving her access to personalized coaching from an outstanding slate of mentors, as well as the opportunity to participate in a thriving Community of Practice, “said James Jensen, chair of the Department of Engineering Education.

According to ASEE, the goal of the program is, “to increase diversity in the higher education STEM pipeline” by facilitating the participation, retention, and advancement of engineering educators from underrepresented and/or underserved groups in academia. The program aims to achieve this goal by enriching the personal and professional lives of mentees and mentors as they work together to achieve mutually agreed-upon goals.  

"ASEE's deliberate course development and mentorship program stands out as a source of inspiration,” said Miles. “They are responding to our collective needs as women of color in engineering education. Through their efforts, I can be one of the women that 'lift as we climb.”

Open to women of color in the society who are in the early stages of their careers, the program has welcomed 25 mentees who were matched with mentors since its launch in October.  

“With Dr. Janie McClurkin Moore as my guide, the wealth of her experience has expanded my reach and network, supporting not just my research focus but ensuring a streamlined path for my future endeavors,” said Miles. “Under her mentorship, I've discovered an authentic lens that transcends academia, propelling me to not only be part of the academy but to thrive and relish every step of the way.”

Miles’ research interests include environmental justice education, critical theories of race, research methods, social justice and pedagogies. Miles is also passionate about using her research to make a difference throughout Buffalo.

Miles earned her PhD and MA in Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences at the University at Buffalo.