The esteemed 2015 International Mentor of the Year Award has been given to Dr. Binodh DeSilva, Head of Analytical and Bioanalytical Operations, Research and Development at Bristol-Myers Squibb for her dedication to mentoring. The award recognizes mentors who demonstrate strong commitment to helping others grow professionally and personally.

Dr. Binodh DeSilva is an Old Girl of Visakha Vidyalaya in Colombo and a graduate of the University of Colombo. She received her doctorate in Chemistry from the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas. Mentor Resources said that Dr. DeSilva’s dedication to mentoring exemplifies the qualities of this annual award, which recognizes mentors who go above and beyond to make a difference in the professional and academic lives of others. Candidates for this honor are nominated by peers or mentees, and must demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting the personal and professional growth of their mentees.

Ken Petelinkar, Associate Director of Compliance Training, Pharmaceutical Development Operations at Bristol-Myers Squibb, leads the mentoring program in which Ms. DeSilva participates. He describes her impact: “When the mentoring program using Wisdom Share began at Bristol-Myers Squibb, Binodh was one of the first to volunteer. Since joining Bristol-Myers Squibb five years ago, De Silva has mentored 10 young professionals.

“I am truly honored to receive this award. It means so much to be able to give back to the profession I love, and I’m motivated by the numerous mentors who have supported me throughout my career,” Ms. DeSilva said. “As President-elect of AAPS, one of my priorities is to encourage professionals to give back to the community, by providing their unique, useful insights to help develop those in their early careers into scientific leaders.”