It is empathy that drives Laura Luque to be an exceptional, compassionate mentor.
“I know what it is to feel like you don’t belong in a place or that you feel that maybe you don’t have what it takes to succeed in a new place where people don’t look like you and don’t sound like you,” said Luque, a biology instructor. “So I have a special place in my heart for students who are first generation because I really understand what they’re going through, the additional challenges that they’re having.”
Luque was awarded the Wassenich Award for Mentoring in the TCU Community for 2021. It recognizes faculty and staff members who serve as role models, advisors and guides to students.
“The Wassenich Award was established by Linda and Mark Wassenich to recognize and celebrate this defining characteristic of TCU for many generations,” said Chancellor Victor J. Boschini, Jr. at the award’s presentation. “Mentoring continues to be valued at TCU, and we celebrate it by presenting an award each year to a faculty or staff member to recognize its importance.”
Alumni and students may nominate individuals.
“This person is a compassionate teacher and mentor who has an exceptional dedication to the welfare of their students, especially those who are from disadvantaged backgrounds and need extra help during their freshman and sophomore years to transition from high school into rigorous college-level courses,” wrote one of her colleagues.
Finalists for the Wassenich are chosen from a committee of primarily faculty and staff. The winner is selected by the Chancellor. The winner receives $3,000, and finalists receive $750.