Dr. Jena Hales: Career Champion Award Winner

The University of San Diego (USD) Career Development Center has named Dr. Jena Hales as the 2025 Career Champion Award recipient. This prestigious, student-nominated award honors a USD faculty or staff member who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to fostering students' career development.  

Dr. Hales was selected for her outstanding mentorship and support of students. A nominating student emphasized the transformative impact of Dr. Hales' guidance, particularly in providing hands-on research and professional development opportunities within the Hales Neurobiology of Memory Lab.  

One student shared this about Dr. Hales:

“Dr. Hales is not only an incredible professor, advisor, and P.I., but also an amazing mom and athlete. Her ability to manage so much at once while staying composed and joyful is remarkable—I aspire to one day possess even an ounce of her energy.” 

Dr. Hales helped students plan their academic paths, explore careers in neuroscience and medicine, and build the confidence to pursue advanced degrees. Her impact on students and the broader USD community is truly inspiring.

The Career Champion Award will be presented to Dr. Hales on April 25, 2025.