Background:
The SIGMOD Mentorship Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated innovation and/or sustained excellence in mentoring—broadly defined—within the data management community. The award celebrates those who have substantially shaped the careers, research trajectories, or professional development of others through outstanding mentorship practices. Mentorship may take many forms, including but not limited to: guiding students and early-career researchers, fostering inclusive research environments, creating new opportunities or programs that enhance mentoring at scale, and serving as a role model whose influence extends well beyond one’s direct advisees or organizational boundaries. The award consists of a plaque and a $5,000 honorarium, generously supported through an annual disbursement from the Hector Garcia-Molina Memorial Fund, established by Jeffrey Ullman and Ramana Yerneni. The award will be presented annually—provided qualified nominations are received—at the ACM SIGMOD/PODS Conference by the Chair of the SIGMOD Awards Committee.
Eligibility:
The award is open to all individuals in the global data management community whose mentorship contributions have had a significant and demonstrable impact. A “true mentor” typically exhibits qualities and behaviors that go beyond technical guidance or clear and engaging teaching – they inspire, empower, and create lasting impact.
Excellence in mentoring encompasses all the activities that empower and inspire mentees, including: (a) helping them see new scientific horizons and pursue bold ideas, (b) listening and supporting, (c) creating inclusive, safe spaces for learning and collaboration, (d) leading by example, imparting a sense of scientific values and integrity, (e) connecting mentees to opportunities, networks, and resources, (f) showing long-term commitment, sustaining relationships and fostering success beyond formal roles.
Contributions may include sustained excellence, demonstrated by a long-term track record of mentoring that may extend beyond the nominee’s own students, team members, or direct reports as well as innovation in mentorship, such as developing new programs, platforms, or opportunities that expand or enhance mentoring
There are no restrictions based on career stage, institutional affiliation, or geographic region.
Members of the current SIGMOD Awards Committee and elected officers of SIGMOD (Chair, Vice Chair, and Treasurer) are not eligible for nomination while serving.
Nomination:
A nomination package must include:
(a) a nomination letter (up to 2 pages) that clearly articulates the nominee’s mentorship contributions and describes both the scale and impact of their efforts. It should highlight how the nominee has demonstrated innovation and/or sustained excellence in mentoring within the data management community.
(b) supporting letters: At least three letters of support are required. These letters should provide concrete examples of the nominee’s mentorship, its outcomes, and the broader influence of their work. To reflect the award’s emphasis on broad excellence, at least one supporting letter must come from an individual who was not directly supervised by the nominee. Additional letters are welcome and encouraged.
All nomination materials must be documented, signed, and will be treated as confidential. Nominations should be submitted by individuals who have personal experience with the nominee’s mentorship contributions.
All nomination materials must be submitted electronically as a single PDF. Nominations remain active for three years, subject to eligibility.