Laura Gleason Spring 2024 CPI Supervisor of the Semester

Gleason has experienced both sides of the CPI program, having worked as an intern at the Eli M. Oboler Library during the last semester of her undergraduate degree. She enjoyed working at the library so much that she continued to work there while she pursued a Masters in Library and Information Science, and now enjoys the opportunity to supervise CPI interns.

"I have found mentorship to be the most rewarding aspect of being a CPI supervisor," explained Gleason. "Through consistent guidance, feedback, and encouragement, I witness firsthand how interns become more self-assured and proactive. This transformation is not just about learning skills; it's about their ability to navigate professional challenges with poise, including the job market."

Gleason was nominated by her intern, Najmeh Dehghanitafti, a doctoral student in English and the teaching of English. In her CPI position, she helped the library as a Teaching & Tutorial Assistant where she updated a series of multimedia tutorials on information literacy.

"Under the mentorship of my supervisor Laura Gleason, I encountered a supportive environment where guidance was readily available, significantly contributing to my professional growth within the educational landscape,"stated Dehghanitafti. "The positive feedback I received from my supervisor reinforces my commitment to excellence in both academia and instructional design. These experiences, coupled with her dedication and passion for teaching and research."

True to Gleason's occupation, in her spare time, she enjoys reading all manner of subjects and genres, but especially philosophy. She intends to continue in her role as a CPI supervisor, enhancing her interns' academic journey and promoting a culture of lifelong learning.

The Spring 2024 CPI Supervisor of the semester award also included five runners up: Jamon Anderson - KISU, Mary Nies, Ph.D. - ISU School of Nursing, Dr. Diane Ogiela, ISU Department of Speech Language Pathology, Dr. Rene Rodrigues - ISU Department of Chemistry, and Lisa Wise - ISU Facilities.

"Laura Gleason's experience with the CPI program is a perfect example of how impactful an internship can be," said Emily Jahsman, Associate Director of the ISU Career Center and administrator of the CPI program.

"Laura started out as a CPI intern, gained great experience in her internship, went on to work at her internship site, and now acts as a CPI supervisor. This full circle, positive experience shows how truly transformational participating in the CPI program can be."

Operating in its thirteenth year, the CPI program provides approximately 900 paid internship opportunities annually to ISU students, and has provided 10,000+ individual internships in that time. CPI internships provide career-related experiences to help students confirm their academic pursuits, gain valuable work experience, and prepare them for life after graduation. For more information about the CPI program visit isu.edu/career.