English Department Undergraduate Faculty Mentor of the Year Award: Cree Taylor

Congratulations to Cree Taylor, the 2025-26 English Department Undergraduate Faculty Mentor of the Year! 

“Cree has distinguished herself as an extraordinary mentor whose influence on undergraduate students extends far beyond the classroom,” English Department Head Brian McCuskey comments. “Although she is an exceptional instructor, her most defining contribution to the college is her dedication to mentoring — with a scope, consistency, and depth that exemplify the highest ideals of this award.” 

Students consistently say Cree is one of the most accessible faculty members they have encountered and worked with. Every week, Cree hosts multiple structured office hours and flexible appointment times, remaining committed to helping students navigate the university environment, gain understanding of the English major, and become confident in their assignments and skills. Cree’s style of mentoring prioritizes genuine connection as she creates a safe and comfortable space for students, opening up conversations not only about academics but about personal belonging, identity, or questions. 

Cree also builds one-on-one mentoring into all of her courses as she requires individual conferences multiple times a semester. Here, she learns about students’ challenges and strengths as well as their own interests and aspirations. She caters advice and guidance to every student, helping them find the best pathway to developing as a writer, learner, thinker, and emerging professional. Because of this genuine dedication to knowing and helping students, Cree has been asked for many letters of recommendation, help navigating new academic programs, and advice for students entering the workforce.

Many students see Cree as a meaningful and safe part of their experience at USU. Students, especially new, can often feel isolated on such a large campus, but Cree offers a respectful, understanding, and supportive space. Cree is an advocate for all students, a professor dedicated to providing academic and personal resources, and a mentor who truly puts the effort in to help her students feel seen. 

Many students see Cree as a meaningful and safe part of their experience at USU. Students, especially new, can often feel isolated on such a large campus, but Cree offers a respectful, understanding, and supportive space. Cree is an advocate for all students, a professor dedicated to providing academic and personal resources, and a mentor who truly puts the effort in to help her students feel seen.