Rubén R. Dupertuis, background, with students
Rubén R. Dupertuis, associate professor and department chair of religion at Trinity University in Texas, has been selected as a 2020 CUR–Arts and Humanities Faculty Mentor Awardee. The award consists of a plaque and $1,000 for the recipient’s work with undergraduate researchers.
Dr. Dupertuis earned his BA in English literature from University of Michigan, his MA in theological studies from the Claremont School of Theology, and his PhD in New Testament studies from Claremont Graduate University. He served as the first director of Trinity’s Mellon Initiative for Undergraduate Research in the Arts and Humanities, which facilitates summer research fellowships for students, provides professional development for faculty, and fosters the infusion of research into undergraduate curricula. He is a councilor in CUR’s Arts and Humanities Division and previously was a member of CUR’s Posters on the Hill Review Committee.
Established by Dr. Dupertuis and Classical studies colleague Timothy O’Sullivan, the Roman World Lab has teamed more than 15 students with faculty members in projects involving ancient Roman religious culture and Latin literature. Projects range from the creation of interpretative guides to ancient Greek texts that can be used in classrooms to the preparation of web-based resources on the noncanonical Gospel of Peter. The lab has served as a model for other humanities labs on campus.
Said Lindsay Currie, CUR’s executive officer, “Dr. Dupertuis embodies the qualities of exemplary arts and humanities mentors who work with undergraduate researchers: a commitment to cross-disciplinary work and inclusion of diverse students and faculty, as well as a dedication to advancing the essential role of the humanities in undergraduate education. He values the enrichment of teaching and research that collaboration with undergraduate students has provided.”
Said Deneese Jones, vice president for academic affairs at Trinity University, “It is rare when one can identify a faculty member with not only the knowledge, skills, and attitude to spearhead the essential role of the humanities in undergraduate education, but one who also applies this in a way that demonstrates inclusive excellence by empowering—not assimilating—a diverse group of young people in preparation for their future and for a world in which they will live and work. These are undisputed indicators of a strong educator, and we see all of these attributes in Dr. Dupertuis!”
The CUR-Arts and Humanities Faculty Mentor Awards were established in 2018 through an endowment by 2012 CUR Fellow Joyce Kinkead (Utah State University) to nurture undergraduate research, scholarship, and creative inquiry in arts and humanities disciplines.
Founded in 1978, the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) focuses on providing high-quality and collaborative undergraduate research, scholarly, and creative activity. Among the many activities and networking opportunities that CUR provides, the organization also offers support for the professional growth of faculty and administrators through expert-designed institutes, conferences, and a wide-range of volunteer positions. The CUR community, made up of nearly 700 institutions and 13,000 individuals, continues to provide a platform for discussion and other resources related to mentoring, connecting, and creating relationships centered around undergraduate research. CUR’s advocacy efforts are also a large portion of its work as they strive to strengthen support for undergraduate research. Its continued growth in connections with representatives, private foundations, government agencies, and campuses world-wide provides value to its members and gives voice to undergraduate research. CUR is committed to inclusivity and diversity in all of its activities and our community.
CUR focuses on giving a voice to undergraduate research with learning through doing. It provides connections to a multitude of campuses and government agencies, all while promoting networking and professional growth to its community.
Trinity University: Trinity University, San Antonio’s premier liberal arts and sciences university, marked its 150th anniversary of academic excellence in 2019. As one of the nation’s top undergraduate institutions, the university is known for its challenging and supportive academic environment, personalized attention from outstanding faculty, large school resources, postgraduate preparation, and vibrant campus life. Trinity’s 2,550 undergraduate and graduate students come from 45 states and 65 countries.