Dear LN familia,

Hola! The CMA and Latino Network are inviting you to participate in our mentor programs. We are very excited to bring you these new programs! We are looking for people interested in being mentors and mentees. Anyone who has ever had a mentor or been a mentor knows the efficacy of a mentor/mentee relationship. Whether you are the one to give the advice or the one taking it, these programs need you…

For those considering being a mentor, think back to when you first entered the field of higher education. If you had a mentor, remember how it was to have someone there to just ask questions of or quietly admire. You could be that person to someone just entering the field. If you never had a mentor, imagine how great it would have been to have someone of Latino heritage there to ask advice and guidance from, especially for those who work in a predominately white institution. These two programs do just that.

For those interested in being mentees, I know by personal experience that when I was a graduate experience I was very fortunate. I had many strong Latino role models to look up to. I observed their actions and asked for their advice. They may have not even known I considered them role models but their actions and ethics are a guiding force for me to this day. For everything they ever did or will do, I thank you…

Those interested in participating in the mentor programs have two options. You can either participate in the CMA mentor program alone or participate in the CMA and Latino Network mentor programs together. (Please note: If you choose to participate in both the CMA and LN mentor programs, you will be assigned the same mentor/mentee.) The CMA program runs for the duration of the convention only. The main purpose is to guide new graduates and young professionals through the ropes of ACPA and placement. If you would like more information on the CMA Mentor-Mentee program, please visit: http://www.acpa.nche.edu/comms/scma/mentormentee.htm

The Latino Network mentor program really begins once the convention is over. The LN program is an on-going program and provides continued mentor/mentee support and professional development. I realize we are all very busy professionals and the thought of adding one more thing to our already enormous time commitments is a huge favor to ask. However, being a mentor should not be seen as a time commitment but rather as a means to an end. If we don't support, encourage, and provide leadership to young Latino/as coming into the field, who will?

Please feel free to forward this email and the attached materials to those who you think might benefit from these great programs. Be sure and forward completed applications to Ann Ho.
Thanks and see you in Minneapolis!!!

Gilbert Contreras
Coordinator, LN Mentor-Mentee Program

For more information, please contact Gilbert Contreras at (508) 793-3084 or via email at <gcontrer@holycross.edu>.

Mentor Interest Form

For individuals interested in being a MENTOR - student affairs professionals of color who can help guide a graduate student or new professional through their first ACPA convention.

Mentee Interest Form

For individuals interested in being a MENTEE - graduate students or new professionals of color attending their first ACPA convention.

LN