I am an academic immigrant who studies immigrants who, like myself, moved from their homelands to other countries to pursue academic careers. Institutions of higher education around the world are homes to many academics who migrated across geopolitical borders under a variety of personal, professional, and political circumstances to pursue opportunities, academic freedom, and disciplinary excellence. There are probably several in your own department, school, or college. In interviewing my study’s participants, I learned about their motivations, hopes, and regrets. They shared challenges they are facing, even years after immigration, as well as their pride in the contributions they are making to their institutions and disciplines (Lemish, 2022).
Reciprocity over Hierarchy: Designing and Implementing a Student-Led Reverse Mentoring Program
Many academic leaders, including administrators and faculty members, participate in traditional mentoring programs that prioritize hierarchy. But these programs typically don’t foster engagement and connection between students and faculty or
Marquita Lyons-Smith and Keva Suitte
October 19, 2026
