b'Eric Dufek Gregory Holmbeck Boopathy Kombaiah (left)Eric Dufek, a manager withGregory Holmbeck, staff scientistThe impact of mentors is evident Energy and Environment Scienceand director of the INL Center forin the exceptional achievements and Technology, received the firstRadiation Chemistry Research,and testimonials of mentees. INL Postdoc Mentor of the Yearmentored Jacy Conrad, this yearsFrom Richens unwavering award. Intern Pete Barnes wroteOutstanding Postdoc of the Year.commitment to her interns to in his nomination statement, EricHolmbeck plays an active role as aBarlows inclusive and supportive exemplifies the qualities of anmentor, and Conrads success standsapproach, these mentors outstanding postdoc mentor. Hisas a testament to his guidance.exemplify the qualities that dedication to my professionalHolmbeck said, The mentors role ismake them outstanding guides. development, combined with histo promote success in the mentee, notPences effective communication insightful guidance, has profoundlythe other way around. and Dufeks dedication to influenced my career path. Holmbeck said the secret to beingpostdoc mentoring further Dufek highlights the importancea good mentor is simple. Enjoyhighlight the transformative of being available and responsive.the experience, he said. Being apower of mentorship.He is not sure if there is a secret tomentor is a privilege that presents aHolmbecks belief in nurturing the being a good mentor, but beinggolden opportunity to nurture thenext generation of researchers honest, professional, approachablenext generation of researchers. and Kombaiahs work to pass on and engaging helps the process,Boopathy Kombaiah, a nuclearhis knowledge demonstrate the he said. There are many ways toresearch facility engineer at thediverse range of mentors and their provide feedback and help othersMaterials and Fuels Complex,influence in various roles within out, and each situation should bereceived an honorable mentionthe organization.treated differently. I personally like tofor the Postdoc Mentor of the Year.Lets recognize and appreciate the treat each opportunity with an openHis advice for potential mentorsmentors who have dedicated their mind so that I can hopefully learnis keeping professional growth oftime and expertise to guide others. something as well. the mentee as the highest priorityTheir tireless efforts contribute in every action by mentors andto the continuous growth and treating my mentee as I expected tosuccess of individuals within the be treated when I was a mentee. lab and across the globe.S T U D E N T S, P O S T D O C S A N D FAC U LT Y AC H I E V E M E N T S F Y23 13'