61st Annual Canadian Association for Graduate Studies Conference Presentation

 Academic Partnerships presented at the 61st Annual Canadian Association for Graduate Students (CAGS) Conference. The conference theme was Inclusive Excellence in Graduate Supervision and Mentorship and was held in Victoria, British Columbia.

Session Information

High-Touch Online Graduate Mentorship: Leveraging Technology for Inclusivity and Scalability

Wednesday, 8 November from 3:30-5:00 PM.

  • Kashif Asdi, PhD, Academic Partnerships
  • Torie Wynn, MA, Academic Partnerships

Thank you to those who joined us in the Songhees Suite!

Session Abstract

In an era of rapidly evolving technology and increasing demand for online or hybrid education, graduate mentorship has undergone a transformative shift. The session on ” Inclusive Online Graduate Mentorship: Leveraging Technology for Scalable High-Touch Practices” invites you to explore innovative strategies and best practices for fostering meaningful mentorship relationships in the digital realm. Whether you’re an academic administrator, faculty member, or a mentor looking to adapt your mentoring practices to the online or hybrid environment, this session offers valuable takeaways.

Key Discussion Points:

  1. Leveraging Technology: Discover how familiar technologies and data analytics can enhance the student experience, making it more accessible and efficient.
  2. High-Touch Practices: Consider strategies to maintain the faculty touch in online relationships. Discuss scalable ways to build rapport, foster trust, and provide meaningful support.
  3. Scalability and Inclusivity: Accommodate larger numbers of graduate students while ensuring inclusivity and equity in access to mentors and mentorship opportunities.


By the end of this session, you will have a comprehensive understanding of how technology can be harnessed to create high-touch, scalable, and impactful graduate mentorship programs that empower the next generation of scholars and professionals. Join us for an engaging and interactive discussion that will shape the future of online and hybrid graduate mentorship.

Shared Resources

Course Start Checklist

Get Your Semester Off to the Right Start

Examples & Templates

Help Reduce Student Melt and Increase Student Success

Guidebook & Worksheet

Mentor and Support Your Students All Semester