Kellogg faculty fellow Karen Richman, professor of the practice and director of undergraduate studies at the Institute for Latino Studies, has received the 2026 Dockweiler Award for Excellence in Advising from the University of Notre Dame.
The Dockweiler Awards recognize excellence in academic advising as a vital component of the Notre Dame student experience. Richman was honored for her outstanding mentorship of students and colleagues, her contributions to Latino studies, and her leadership in building academic programs that advance the University’s mission and enrich students’ education.
Since becoming director of undergraduate studies in 2010, Richman has expanded the Institute for Latino Studies’ programs from 17 students to more than 100, including the institute’s largest graduating class to date in 2025. She has directed 28 senior theses and helped establish an annual senior thesis presentation event for students and faculty.
Students praised Richman as “an invaluable mentor” whose teaching and advising inspire them “to pursue my passions and fascinations.” She also serves as faculty advisor to student organizations including the Student Coalition for Immigration Advocacy and the Caribbean Student Association.
Notre Dame recognized Richman as a scholar whose teaching, mentorship, and research “mutually enrich one another” and whose work exemplifies “the power of real-world application from academic knowledge.”
Richman has been a Kellogg Institute faculty fellow since 2002.