Building Leaders: Three nursing faculty selected for university mentoring program
From left to right: Lauren Acosta, PhD, RN, SANE-A, CPH; Ruth Taylor-Piliae, PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN, FWAN; Chen X. Chen, PhD, RN, MBBS, FAAN
Lauren Acosta, PhD, RN, SANE-A, CPH, chair of the Nursing and Health Education Division at the College of Nursing, has been selected for the Campus Leadership Mentoring Program, a competitive, university-wide initiative focused on strengthening leadership across the University of Arizona. Acosta is joined by fellow College of Nursing faculty members Ruth Taylor-Piliae, PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN, FWAN, and Chen X. Chen, PhD, RN, MBBS, FAAN, highlighting the college’s strong representation in this year’s cohort.
Offered through the MENTOR Institute within the Office of Faculty Affairs, in collaboration with Human Resources, the program unites aspiring leaders from across the university for a year-long experience focused on professional growth, institutional insight, and meaningful connections. Through workshops, mentoring conversations, and guided reflection, participants acquire practical tools to enhance their effectiveness and support broader institutional goals.
“Investing in leadership capacity is vital for advancing our college's and university's missions," said Brian Ahn, PhD, dean of the College of Nursing. “We are proud to see Drs. Acosta, Taylor-Piliae, and Chen were chosen for this program, and we believe their participation will further strengthen our community and increase the impact of our work.”
For Acosta, the selection reflects both her growth since joining the university nearly five years ago and a key moment in her leadership journey. “Participating as a mentee in this program will provide me with a valuable opportunity to reflect more intentionally on my role as division chair,” Acosta said. “I look forward to learning from experienced leaders and gaining insights into navigating complex situations, supporting faculty, and advancing priorities within the college. It’s been truly energizing to start building connections with colleagues across the university.”
Taylor-Piliae emphasized the value of peer collaboration and the development of skills within the program. “The opportunity to grow alongside colleagues who share a genuine commitment to professional growth is particularly meaningful,” said Taylor-Piliae. “I look forward to forming strong peer connections, sharpening my communication and problem-solving skills, and learning from the diverse perspectives within my group.”
Chen highlighted the significance of mentorship and building a sense of community, especially as a newer member of the university. “This program reflects our university’s strong commitment to preparing future leaders,” Chen said. “I’m grateful for the chance to learn from and work alongside both experienced and newer faculty from various disciplines. I look forward to growing through these relationships and enhancing my ability to contribute to our academic and scientific communities in impactful ways.”
Juyoung Park, PhD, MSW, FGSA, who oversees both Chen and Taylor-Piliae, highlighted the broader impact of their involvement. “They each bring a unique leadership perspective rooted in both scholarship and mentorship,” Park said. “Their ability to translate research into real-world impact, while fostering the development of those around them, reflects the kind of leadership this program aims to develop. I’m eager to see how they will use this experience to advance their work and support their colleagues.”
As they progress through the program, Acosta, Taylor-Piliae, and Chen are building relationships and gaining perspectives that will last well beyond the year-long experience. The insights and connections they develop will shape their leadership, enhance collaboration across the university, and foster a more connected and forward-looking academic community.