The Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR) is pleased to welcome Dr. Sarah Johnson of Moravian University, Dr. Haseeb Kazi of Trine University, and Dr. Tim Raines of the Indiana Afterschool Network to its Board of Directors.
Each brings a unique perspective and deep commitment to advancing undergraduate research across diverse institutional and community settings. Dr. Kazi’s leadership in STEM education and dedication to hands-on student engagement, Dr. Johnson’s expertise in fostering inclusive research environments in the liberal arts, and Dr. Raines’s work in bridging formal and informal education through community programs will collectively strengthen CUR’s mission. Their combined experience will support CUR as it expands its national reach, elevates its strategic initiatives, and promotes equitable access to high-quality undergraduate research for all students.
When asked what being a part of the CUR Board of Directors means to them, they answered:
Johnson stated, “Being on the Board of Directors of CUR means helping to steer the preeminent U.S. organization focused on mentors and their students involved in undergraduate research, scholarship, and creative inquiry. I am proud to be part of the leadership of CUR, which supports and promotes independent undergraduate scholarly and creative work across all disciplines, types of institutions, and demographics. I am excited to engage with my CUR peers as we help diverse faculty, staff, administrators, and students to navigate challenges and experience great personal and disciplinary achievements.
Kazi goes on to answer, “I am deeply honored to continue my long-standing connection with the Council on Undergraduate Research. What began as a small seed, rooted in a passion for giving back to academia, has grown over the years into a thriving tree, nurtured by meaningful collaboration, a shared dedication to supporting student research, and mentorship that transforms both advisor and advisee alike. Working alongside such a distinguished group of scholars remains both humbling and enlightening. The true value of this work lies not just in what we contribute but in what we gain and carry forward: the joy of discovery, the fulfillment of guiding new talent, and the privilege of helping shape the next generation of thinkers and leaders. Here’s to continued growth—onward and upward!”
Raines explains, “I have always held onto Muhammad Ali’s words: ‘Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.’ For me, joining the CUR Board of Directors is not just about fiduciary responsibility or implementing strategic direction, though both are vital. It is about honoring that rent. Serving on the CUR Board is one of the many ways I am paying for my room here on earth. It is a commitment to championing high quality mentored undergraduate research and making sure the next generation of scholars has every opportunity to thrive.
“We are thrilled to welcome Drs. Johnson, Kazi, and Raines to the CUR Board of Directors,” said Lindsay Currie, Executive Officer of the Council on Undergraduate Research. “Each brings a unique lens and a wealth of experience that mirrors the diversity and depth of our membership. As undergraduate research continues to evolve, their leadership will be essential in helping CUR expand access, champion innovation, and strengthen research opportunities for students across disciplines and institutional settings.”
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.
