PRIAIRE VIEW, Texas (December 16, 2025) — Prairie View A&M University junior Laura Upchurch, a Human Nutrition and Food major, has discovered a deeper sense of purpose through her experience in the RISE Program. Mentored by Jacklyn Sanders, Ph.D., Upchurch is studying how mentorship shapes student engagement and retention within the College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources’ Research (CAFNR Research). Her research examines the impact of the Mentor Collective’s “Panther-to-Panther” and “Panthers on the Move” programs.
For Upchurch, the greatest highlight of RISE has been gaining firsthand exposure to the research process. She said working alongside passionate faculty and staff has fueled her curiosity and strengthened her confidence.
“I’ve always loved asking questions,” she said. “This program allows me to do it in an elevated and academic manner I could only dream of after graduation.”
“Laura is one of those rare students who approaches research with both curiosity and discipline. Her enthusiasm for understanding how mentorship shapes the student experience has elevated the quality of our work in CAFNR. She brings fresh ideas, asks thoughtful questions, and follows through with exceptional professionalism. Watching her grow as a researcher has been a true privilege,” Sanders said.
After earning her bachelor’s degree, Upchurch plans to continue her studies at PVAMU, pursue a master’s degree, pass the Registered Dietitian exam and eventually complete a doctorate. Her long-term goal is to become a community leader who shares science-based knowledge that helps people live healthier, happier lives.
Her research interests are shaped by a clear understanding of the post-COVID student experience. Many students, she explained, still struggle to find belonging after spending their formative years learning through screens. That’s why she believes mentorship matters now more than ever.
Through digital platforms like Mentor Collective, Upchurch said students are paired with mentors who share their interests and experiences—giving them someone relatable to guide them through university life. As both a mentor and mentee, she values the opportunity to support others while continuing to learn from those who came before her.
Preliminary data from her project shows encouraging trends: students who engage in these programs report a stronger sense of belonging and greater academic success. Upchurch said she looks forward to analyzing this year’s outcomes to help strengthen future program offerings.
She encourages anyone interested—students, faculty, staff, alumni or industry partners—to get involved.
“Any person who wants to help a PVAMU student, or any student who wants help, is welcome to stop me and ask how to join,” she said. “Or just say hi. I’m always happy to help.”
The PVAMU Faculty-RISE Program, led by Vice President for Research and Innovation Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., empowers students through comprehensive research training, dedicated mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The program is designed to prepare the next generation of scientists and innovators to drive transformative discoveries and leadership both at PVAMU and in their future careers.
By Joe McGinty