The Mentor Award celebrates the recipient’s outstanding contributions to the development and growth of the next generation of planetarium professionals. To qualify for this award, the individual has been a current or former member of the organization for five consecutive years, and demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing science education. They foster the interests of others in the industry, provide opportunities for hands-on skill development in the planetarium profession, and establish connections for individuals to the broader planetarium community.
Schultz was nominated by her peers and her former and current students. Her work with students from across disciplines has been a point of distinction within GLPA and other professional planetarium communities. She is known and respected widely for her contributions to the field and her students are held in high regard.