Scholars of Excellence

Patrice M. Buzzanell, Professor of Communication at USF since 2017, has profoundly impacted graduate mentoring, advising 147 completed theses and dissertations throughout her career and actively supporting 20 current projects across USF and other institutions. Her mentoring philosophy emphasizes "co-mentoring," a collaborative approach that values mutual learning and adapts to each unique relationship. Patrice’s mentees have earned prestigious awards, including from the Association for Chinese Communication Studies and the Organization for the Study of Communication, Language & Gender, and they hold academic positions nationwide.

Beyond direct mentoring, Patrice advances student and faculty development through leadership roles in professional organizations. Her efforts include DEIB initiatives, organizing workshops, and fostering professional growth in fields like organizational communication and resilience. Patrice has also strengthened mentoring networks globally, co-organizing conferences, delivering keynotes, and conducting research collaborations across continents.

An award-winning mentor, Patrice’s accolades include the B. Aubrey Fisher Mentorship Award from the International Communication Association and Purdue University’s Outstanding Graduate Mentor Award. 

Her commitment extends through editorial work, program reviews, and hosting the “Communicating for Impact” ICA podcast series, underscoring her dedication to fostering academic excellence and community. Patrice’s transformative contributions exemplify the spirit of the Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award.

Travis R. Bell, Director of Graduate Programs and Research in the Zimmerman School of Advertising & Mass Communications, has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to mentoring graduate students since joining USF's faculty in 2019. As a dedicated mentor, he has chaired 10 master’s theses, served on committees for students across four departments, and guided students toward academic and professional success. Notably, seven of his mentees have been accepted into top doctoral programs, with others securing industry positions in media and sports organizations.

In addition to mentoring, Bell has enhanced the graduate program curriculum by developing a Media Literacy and Analytics concentration and creating four new graduate courses that emphasize media storytelling and analytics. His "Grad School 101" sessions support first-year graduate students, fostering a collaborative community.

Beyond USF, Bell actively mentors graduate students through associations like the International Association for Communication and Sport, where he coordinates student awards and events. He has also published and presented research with students, earning top paper awards. His unwavering support extends beyond graduation, as he remains committed to advancing his students' careers and academic journeys across disciplines and institutions. Bell’s dedication makes him a deserving candidate for the Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award.

Erika Greenberg-Schneider, an Associate Professor in Graphic Design and Printmaking at USF's College of the Arts, has been mentoring MFA Art students since 2005. Her guidance goes beyond traditional instruction, helping students understand the complexities of a professional artistic career. With her mentorship, students develop critical skills for sustaining an art practice post-graduation, gaining resilience and self-sufficiency.

Erika's approach is multifaceted: she serves as a guide, educator, and challenger, pushing students to explore new creative possibilities and refine their work. Her mentorship evolves based on each student’s growth, offering support as they define their artistic identity. By welcoming students into her studio space and involving them in professional art fairs, Erika provides real-world exposure and opportunities to showcase their work.

Many of Erika's mentees, like Alicia Watkinson, Rachel Treide, and Willow Wells, have successfully transitioned into professional art careers, teaching, exhibiting, and contributing to the art community. Erika’s dedication ensures that her students are not only skilled but also prepared to thrive as independent artists. Her commitment to fostering both artistic and professional development has earned her the Outstanding Faculty Mentor Honorable Mention.