My life would not have even existed if I was not born. So I must thank my parents first( Dr. K.V. Thadani and Mrs Veena K. Thadani, and God who taught me how to survive and helped me through some form or other meeting the right person at the right time or an excellent idea, or coming up with after reading a magazine who would buy me the best always, and spoilt me. I always got the best from my dad, and the virtues from my mom,(MRS VEENA. K Thadani).I wish to thank my sisters,Geethu, KAVI, and Bharathi. I wish to thank my UNCLES, and Aunts and especially Mr. D.V Thadani,and Indru and their children My Aunts my cousin POONAM, who is my best child hood buddy and VIMMY VENUGOPAL who listened to my cribbing lectures and taught me medicine and gave me books to read. I would like to Thank ST. Francis Xavier's School my teachers at Jyoti Nivas, Victoria Hospital, Lima Emmanuel,My husband Rupen is the pillar of my strength, and instrumental in being WHAT I AM TODAY. My Teachers at UCSF- AMY Shiratsuki, Dr. Abbey Alkon,( FOR sharing her research knowledge, and helping me designing reseach questions, and teaching me more research), Dr. Bill Holzemer( for power, and gifts from Japan), Dr. Chafetz, Dr. Froelicher, Dr. Afaf Melies, Dr. Angela Banks, Dr. Min Sohn Dr. Mary WHite, Dr. Sally Rankin, Dr. Steve Paul, Dr.Bruce Cooper, Dr. Hully, Jenny Phelps who read my rubbish paragraphs.. and taught me how to write one paragraph at a time.., Dimitri, and GP( who read my rubbish paragraphs.. and Jim Grout who would just listen when I cried and teach me whenever he had the time, and I guess UCSF at large. So just a BIG Thank You and I feel I am so blessed with everything. I have everything. No regrets.

Neelam Chanda
San Francisco, CA

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Shawn Alexander is one of the most important mentors that I have had in my life. He is my best friend that lives in Las Vegas where I used to live. I met him on the first day of school in my German class. We were both freaked out freshmen in a class of all Juniors and Seniors. We had that we-need-to-stick-together-or-we're-dead attitude so we instantly became friends. We hung out almost everyday and usually played video games or watched movies. That's about the time when I started to get really interested in video games. However, I wasn't really into computers that much. That is until I went over to Shawn's house one day. He had told me to come over because he wanted to show me something that he was really excited about. When I got to his room, I noticed that he had a brand new computer and that there was a bunch of programming boxes everywhere. I asked him where he got his cool new computer and he said that he hadn't bought a new computer. I was confused and he saw that so he explained that he had only bought a new case for the computer and that he had rebuilt his old computer inside the new casing. I was amazed. I thought 'How is this possible?!' He was only 15 years old and was already building his own computers. Then he shocked me even more when he showed me what he was working on with his new programs that he bought. He had made his own computer games by programming his computer to be able to use the types of software that were needed. I couldn?t believe it. Not only was he building and modifying his own computers, but he was also creating and programming his own games. For the rest of that day I sat there with him and played with his game. It was a blast. After I got home, I thought about how cool it would be to be able to make my own games. From that point on I was hooked on games and anything that had to do with a computer. Shawn got me interested in creating and designing computer games and programs, which I am making my life career.

Zachary Atchley
Richland, WA

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This is long over due. If we never meet again Ms. Alfred, my 4th grade teacher that taught me how to read, I thank you. If you never teach another class, know the difference you made for one. If there is ever a time in your life that you may feel down, know in your heart how you lifted up one, that really needed it. Bless you, take care.

Katrius Muhammad
Guthrie, OK

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My friend Leticia Anderson has been a mentor to me. She has taught me to be patient and to wait for the things I want. It was just a few weeks ago whe we were out shopping for cloth and I found what I wanted. We walked uo to the cashier and there was the longest line ever. We got in line and waited there forever, it felt like we were there forever atleast. I started to get very impatient and thats when it started to feel like it was taking for ever. Leticia turned to me and told me to be be patient and I tried to be. The line then felt like it was moving much faster. We finally got up to the cashier and paid for our things. We left the store and went to another one. I got the things I wanted and waited in line. but this time I waited in line patiently and the line moved so much quicker. I was more patient this time and it felt so much better. I was able to get to the cashier sooner and I was able to get out of the store in a timely manner. So I have learned to be patient when I am waiting for something. Leticia has taught me a lot from this experience. I have been more patient with everything.

Ashley C.
Kennewick, WA

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Mrs Anthony was a 9th grade teacher in the Neptune NJ School system. I was placed in a testbed for accelerated students; we has a large rug in the classroom and we rested on pillows while we were in the learning environment. Truth be told; at the time I despised this woman, so sure of herself and self righteous in her approach. Conversely; for some strange reason, she adored me. She always spoke of "The Method"...in which she espoused a philosophy that a task can be done many ways...but only ONE way was best...THAT was "The Method". "That is YOUR task", she would say..."to FIND The Method". Today I'm a 51 year old Electronics Engineer who owns his own Business, and not a single day goes by that I tackle a project and don't hear her admonition. "The Method" has served me well...sadly, I never had the opportunity to thank her for her sage insight, as Mrs. Anthony has since passed away. I will forever be in her debt, and her legacy will live on in me.

David Mains
Neptune, NJ

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My mentor is my 9th grade English teacher Mrs. B. She gave me the tools on how to make good essays and poetry. She always gave me her full attention and help when I needed it and taught me how to think outside the box. Without her I would not be the writer that I am today. I am very grateful to have her as a mentor.

Olivia Baker, age 15
Mesquite, TX

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Tina Bardwell is my mother. I know a lot of people would say their parents were their role models but my mom has gone beyond that. She is my mom, my insperation, my role model, my best friend, and my hero. my mom is one of the nicest, outgoing people i know, but she also has a sassy side which I love. She surprises people all the tim with her attitude. My mom is also a very good cook she makes everything I love just so she can see me happy. I think my mom is the best one i have met so far. My mom once told me i could do anything i wanted to with my life if i wanted it bad enough i would set my mind to it and i would get it. For a girl with my dreams that ment a lot. There was one time i lived in utah and she lived in washington at the time i got in a car accident i didnt think of anything but to call her. She called everyone and told them to get there now! she showed me no matter how far apart we were she would always be there. I love my life everything about it i enjoy but if i didnt have my mom it wouldnt be the same. She made me who i am today. A strong independent girl who has i high head and will walk tall no matter how dark the situation there will be dark at night but morning will always come with the sun shining bright. If i could pick one person to be out of all the celebs and singers, movie stars or rock stars i would pick my mom!

Britany Brierley
Richland, WA

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You have helped me... But seriously, thanks for taking the time to answer the many questions that I have had over the last year. I have learned a lot and expect I will learn much more. Thanks,

Adam Glaser
Memphis, TN

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My mentor Peter is very nice.I think he is nice because he got me a dictionary for Christmas holiday.He is also checking my homework everyday that I see him.I think that he is the nicest mentor in the whole entire world. This is my tribute about my mentor.

Winston Khuu
Costa Mesa, CA

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It takes a difficult case to require two co-mentors. that case happens to be me. I would like to thank Rachel and Beckie for the way that they live their lives each hard working and willing to help anyone. I appreciate the knowledge and example they provide in the workplace. The things that have been most valuable to me as their protégé is the integrity, work ethic and love for family they share in every aspect of their lives. Each day I watch in amazement as they balance work and family performing each duty with excellence. While both Beckie and Rachel are very unique individuals, I respect these common values they share, and enjoy their individuality. It seems that I have a built in panel of support and would also like to thank the life coaches in my life. Tricia and Jamie thank you for the guidance and understanding that you so freely give! You guys are the best! I really feel blessed for all the wonderful individuals in my life these relationships have shaped who I am, and enriched any attribute I may have. I hope that I have and will be able to contribute a portion of what these ladies have gifted me in my life. You are truly amazing women. Thanks for all you do!

Amanda Farley Olsen
Copperton, UT

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Mrs. Brockett was my third grade teacher who instilled confidence in me through her innovative teaching techniques. She strove to make every student feel special and often broke the class into small groups where she could work with students better. I remember her always telling me I should be a lawyer since I was always concerned with what is fair and constantly speaking my mind-she had a knack for recognizing and encouraging specific qualities of her students. Third grade is when I really began to feel smart because she helped me feel that way. My parents always thought Mrs. Brockett was crazy, but it was her zany character that made me like her so much and remember her influence even to this day.

Lindsay Callahan
Wyckoff, NJ

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My mom's boyfriend; Greg who has been with our family for the past eight years has been teaching me how to be responsible with my money and spend it wisely. This way I can go to college and have a future with no debt and a descent lifestyle. Greg has been teaching me about stocks and bonds and watching the stock markets. Also where to put my money for example which banks. This is so because interest rates at different banks are really important because it will determine how much money will get in return for choosing their bank. I opened a CD account at Yakima Federal at 4.37% and after a month of my account being stuck at this rate it went up everytime their rates went up. It was at 100 dollar incriments and so I put in $500 to make it grow at a rapid rate. The CD account ends after 18 months and I can leave it for the next term or take it out. Also him and my mom opened me a checking account to teach me how to be more responsible with my money in the bank and my paychecks. Every month I pay $87 in car insurance and I pay for my own gas, clothes, animals, and everything I own. At times it can be difficult because I love shopping and spending money but I get reminded about saving for college. This helps stop me. When I first started learning how to save I would watch Suze Orman and other people's mistakes. I rarely watch her now. Now i focus on what the stocks are doing; whether they are going up or down. All in all he has taught me so much. I now know a lot about maoney and responsibility and I am so grateful for this.

Jessica Spence
Richland, WA

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My name is JoAnne: I was very young and gullible girl,at 20. I went to work as a secratary and grew to a WORLD WISE PERSON I consider myself today. Strong, wise and always thinking. I became a creative and great KITCHEN DEIGNER. No school or college, JUST "TEDDY" Now I am a Woman of 52, I attribute my success and knowledge to my best person in the world "TEDDY". There was no one better in math, sales,or criticism when due then "MY POOGY BEAR". Every day that goes by I thank him from Heaven for what he has taught me. There are still times in my struggling life when I need him and he still TEACHES ME through my thoughts and dreams. He is my reality. ox Zelda

Jo-Anne D'Ascoli
Brewster, NY

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Dr. micheal brooks, a socioloy professor at valdosta state has been a mentor to me in many different ways. he has encouraged me to give my best no matter what others think or say. his fantastic teaching style has given me a better outlook on life because thinking not only happens in the classroom but in everything you as a person does in everyday life. finally, dr. brooks has showed me that even thought that i have a disability to where i walk on crutches i can do anything i put my mind too. DR. MICHEAL BROOKS you are father that i always wanted and a mentor i can look up too, and a friend i will never lose...

James Turner
Valdosta, GA

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How do you put a price on experience, how do you put a value on belief? It takes a great person to extend grace and kindness, it takes someone extraordinary to be a mentor.. I have been blessed to be mentored by someone who is not only an exceptional business role model but also an inspiring human. Someone who understands the importance of being a good person first and foremost and the total confidence that the rest will follow. Observing the entire dance from beginning to end and knowing why each step was taken is a lesson that few people are fortunate enough to experience. He has encouraged me to learn by example, has given me the space to be an individual, the time to make my own way. He has consistently exhibited the wisdom to steer, the discipline to correct errors, the patience and the long suffering normally reserved only for ones own family. This has inspired me to make each of these characteristics a part of my work ethic and human experience. Each day I wonder how I managed to blip onto his radar and hope that it isn?t a fluke. This relationship is the turning point in my professional career. This relationship is a gift for which I will be eternally grateful for.

Kelli Baird
Southfield, MI

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What can I say about Charlie... She was 22 and a mother of two beautiful babies. Blaine is 4 and Caydence is 2. She was killed in April 2006 almost a year ago and left behind her babies for to carry her memory. I met Charlie at work. She wasn't just a friend to me she became my best friend and I hopes she still knows that. Charlie loved unconditionally, she would help anyone and everyone in need. She always took care of others and made sure they were care for. She taught me love and patience, how to care for someone without being doubtful of them. To give everyone a chance and to know everyone makes mistakes but if you keep a grudge it makes matters worse. She loved her kids more than her life... to this day her love is still around me when I see those bright blue eyes in Caydence. Charlie was the best mommy in many ways... from being patient to knowing when to discipline them. She never once had to raise her voice to them. Cared for them when they had a boo boo. I miss her more than anything or anyone in this world. She was a mentor and I hope someday when I have kids I can be half the mom she was. If you could have met her big blue eyes you would have known that love and kindness were surrounding you.

Jaime Cummings
CDA, ID

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My mentor has been there for me in different ways. The biggest thing that my mentor has shown me is I need to quit getting in trouble. I am learning to accept responsibility for my own actions, I have not been in as much trouble since I have known my mentor. He also has shown me the value of having an education. He has encouraged me to do better and make better choices. I really want to further my education, I would like to attend Michigan State university and earn my degree to become a special education teacher. I am glad the Florence Crittenton Services of Jackson have a mentoring program, I don't think I would have been able to meet my mentor if had I not been with this program.

Robert Christopher
Jackson, MI

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My brother Vinnie has mentored me throughout my entire life. When I think back on it I do not where I would be at this point in my life without the guidance of my brother. He has taught me so many different things in relation to responsibility, respect, hard work, and so much more. I strive to try to be as good as he is. We spent every day together for years which is where a great deal of my learning occurred. Although there were times where I thought I knew what I was doing and I did things that were not very smart, I look back on it now and realize how exactly right my brother was in what he was teaching me and how I should have listened to him the whole time. At this point in my life I have developed into a great person and I do not think I would be who I was today without having my brother as a mentor. I hope to provide a good example for the children that I am lucky enough to mentor throughout the upcoming semester. I want to work closely with the children to give them the advantage of good interpersonal skills at a much younger age. When I think back on my experience growing up, I would have benefited greatly from a program like this. I just hope to make a positive change in each student's life.

Luke Calvanese
Massachusetts

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Stanley Caradine is my best friend i saw Stan back in 1986 i don;t have a brother; so he is like a brother to me. He told me about classical music and it is because of Stan that i have culture in classical music. I have over 500 cd;s and we attend a lot of concerts; We are attending a concert in June of this year.So this my Tribute.

Michael Glass
Chicago, IL

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I would like to thank my mentor and my best friend for the comforting in a situation I went through when I was 3 years old.  I was sexually abused by my father and she helped me through it.  I did not tell anyone until I was 13 or 14 years old.  And again, she is and will always be my number one friend and mentor.  I am now 33 years old and I can still talk to her about any and everything.  Oh and did I mention, she is my aunt.  Aunt Carma, I love you dearly.  Love your niece Renee Lane.

Renee Lane
Columbia, SC

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I met Joanna when she was a sophomore at Harvard and I was a seven year old child who recently emigrated from Liberia. She was my camp counselor at a Phillips Brooks House summer program. For years I didn't know how to explain our relationship to other people because she is really a friend who happens to be 12 years my senior. At one point I began to refer to her as my "mentor." Now I believe that describes her best because she has been a resource of wisdom and insight. Joanna has also been like sister to me and played a part in easing my journey into adulthood. In the eighteen years I have known her, she has impacted my life in the simplest ways: offering a listening ear, speaking affirming words into my life, encouraging me to follow my dreams. She continues to contribute to my success and inspires me to contribute to the success of younger women in my community.

Chara Itoka
Cambridge, MA

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Miss Causby was my seventh grade math and science teacher. She was tough -- many students were afraid of her because she expected so much from us. It didn't take long for me to realize that she expected so much because she believed in us, and wanted us to stretch our minds and challenge ourselves. I've been so fortunate to have many great teachers. But teachers like Miss Causby often don't hear from their students after those students have grown enough to appreciate what gifts their teachers gave them. Miss Causby, thank you...about 25 years later. I'm an Associate Professor at a University now, educating others and expecting great things from my students, the same way you did for us all. I hope that I can pass the torch on to just a few students, so your light can shine in them, too.

Katharine Stewart
Little Rock, AR

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My best friend Holly has always been there for me. Since we first met at that hockey game fifteen years ago, she hasn't given up on me. Being two weeks older than me she's like the big sister I never had. She has never had enough confidence in herself, she always puts herself down. But what she lacked in herself she gave to me. Holly is one of the few people I know who cares more about how others feel than how she feels. When we first started high school I was getting really bad grades and I started to hang around the wrong crowd of people. She always had better grades than I did, she was so smart and knew all of the right things to do. And no matter how many times I fell in our freshman year, she would always pick me back up and try to point me in a better direction. Sometimes I'd be on the verge of just giving up on school because I didn't have the grades to make it. Holly encouraged me and helped me figure everything out. She was my shoulder to cry on and my rock when everything seemed unstable. Now we're here in our senior year, ready to graduate, and she has helped me make it here. She is someone to respect. She's good hearted and puts others before herself. She's not only my mentor, but she's also one of my heroes'. There are times when I find myself trying to be like her. She's had such a big influence on my life, I don't know where I'd be today if we had never met at that hockey game, fifteen years ago.

Pamela W
Richland, WA

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How do you start off with such a tribute.. I'm not quite sure if there's enough words that can describe my mentor! Knowing that he made me believe in myself, boosted my confidence, provided guidance, encouragement & opportunities. With his guidance I was able to take responsibilty of my life and direct it in the direction I decided rather than leaving it to chance! Through all of this, I achieved a partnership let alone a friendship and most of all a short-cut to which I thought was success but in the end was an eye-opening potentially rich source of learning about myself and life itself. My mentor at one point said he passed on all he could and that he completed his job & that now it's my time to put it to practice but if he could only understand that eventhough he may feel that way, in each and every conversation we have to this very day I wasn't just learning towards my career but about everday life experiences so to me I was constantly learning & believe that there is no limitations. With this being a said the definition of a mentor can only be defined as PIERRE CHICOINE himself. All his efforts, time and devoution has made an ongoing & continuous difference & with my own experience I received from him, I will keep on passing his teachings onto others so this way others too can experience what I did, and most of all I know I can be confident that true appreciation will always be carried through! Thanks Pierre aka Brat, Chico, for just being nothing more than just yourself! Your mentee & friend

Sandy Melo
Quebec, Canada

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It was my first day of the sixth grade, I looked into my first hour class and saw a familiar face. It was my neighbor Jim, and now my new home room and English teacher. The bell rang and I hurried into the classroom to find a seat. Mr. Chinook welcomed his new class into a new world, also known as middle school. He then continued on by saying "You just opened a new door in your life, you can either leave this door open and charge through the next few years opening more doors or you can close it and leave it at that. Your life is what you make it." And that was it! The bell rang and my classmates and I filed out of the classroom silently, millions of thoughts running through our heads, My middle school career flew by but thanks to Mr. Chinook, whenever I think about giving up or slacking the words "Life is what you make it," run through my head. Mr. Chinook disontinued his Anti-depressant medication at the end of my sixth grade year and committed suicide, leaving behind a group of children in his first period class who will never stop hearing "Life is what you make it" and who never got to thank Jim for helping them make their lives what they are today good or bad. And even though he will never see this I would like to thank Jim Chinook for encouraging me to be a strong person and to never give up something important to me. I miss you Jim.

Shelby W.
Richland, WA

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After finishing my first year in high school, I decided to pursue an activity that would allow me to express myself, meet new friends, and make myself a better person (both intellectually and personally). Entering sophomore year, I took a Design Tech Class and learned about the Robotics Team. Being the curious person I am, I decided to check out the first meeting. To my surprise, I there was an opening for a Web designer, and knowing about HTML, I took it. Mr. Clark has greatly helped my learn more about HTML as well as taught me about professional programs like Dreamweaver and Macromedia Fireworks. He has also allowed me to express myself through the web design by letting me be creative and trying out new codes and scripts when I discovered them. Mr. Clark is very kind and thoughtful, and helps everyone on the team be the best they can be with no pressure. He is also generous and teaches you whatever you need to know. There are many more mentors that I would like to submit that also deserve it, but somehow, I feel that Mr. Clark has truly earned and deserves this award.

Maria Deslis, age 15
Louisville, CO

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Thank you for saving my life. Thank you for giving a young 14 year old girl some hope that there is more than the drudge of every day life.Thank you for taking that extra step and not shrinking away from me when I returned to school after that suicide attempt-like everyone else did. Thank you for giving me the joyful gift of music and how to share it, for making me feel special but not so special that I couldn't think of others. I know the school officials gave you the "hard" kids, the depressed kids, the ones who didn't fit in-that was me. I mentor every day of my life because of you-Mary Cole-Oxon Hill Jr. High School-1975. Thank you!!

Wanda Fowler Wilson
Los Lunas, NM

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Myles is more than a mentor to me and my family. He is more like a family member. He reaches beyond the mentoring. Myles has changed my outlook for my future. I now have goals. He is always there for me. Myles is very special to me.

Carlos Martinez, age 13
Westmorland, CA

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This tribute is apart of many that I am far behind in submitting. Mrs. Millie Cruzat is one of my favorite mentor's, because she gave me time, atttention, care, and an opportunity where I saw none. She allowed me as a teenage parent to attend dance/aerobic classes for free; for years. This may not seem like much to some, but for me, at that time in my life, it saved me. As long as I live she and her family will always be apart of my life of giving back. That's what it really is about, giving back. Thank you.

Katrius Muhammad (Coleman)

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As bad as divorce can be to a young girl of 15, it would have been worse had my mom not been a "horribly mean & overly strict" mother. She had the gaul to teach me to be responsible for my actions, not lie, not cheat & to be honest. She stuck up for me when I was right & made me take the blame when it was mine. I had to work in our family store for an hour after school every day (how cruel)! She enforced virtues, morals & insisted on dedication to whatever I tried. If I wanted to play sports or learn an instrument, I had to be dedicated to it for at least a year. I didn't have to be perfect, I just wasn't allowed to give up without a trying. She made me look up big words in the dictionary if I didn't know what they meant & she made me study! Growing up, I despised the strictness of my mean mom. I was sure she had no clue what it was like to be a young girl! Today I can never say "THANK YOU!" enough to her. Her mentoring allowed me to move to a new State alone where I knew no-one, had no job or money & no clue what I was going to do. Her mentoring helped me graduate magna cum laude, become a responsible citizen, never become a victim & always be a strong individual. At 15 I never thought I would be throwing accolades to my mean mother! The families in this country needs more "mean mean moms" like mine. She isn't famous, rich, notable or anything fancy. But she was the BEST mentor that I never knew I had until I had to do it on my own.

Kenna P.
Scottsdale, AZ

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I can't narrow down the people who have given the biggest positive impact in my life. My family has shown me what I want to be and what I definitely want to avoid. My mother has always encouraged me to do my best and her support for what I want in life has never ceased. When stress at school overwhelms me, she's always there for me to have a shoulder to cry on or just to talk to.

Ally Daly, age 15
Dallas, TX

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I would like to thank Kathryn Dawson-Townsend for her guidance and support. She has motivated me to do things that I may have thought to be impossible, and to grow and develop by reaching outside my comfort zone. I have and always will admire her for the person she is and all that she stands for. She is an intelligent, dedicated, compassionate person not only as a leader, but as a friend and mother too. I will always be grateful for having been given the opportunity to mentor with her! She has taught me to believe in myself and that all things are possible. For all that she's done for me, the words of wisdom she's provided me, and for making me believe that nothing is impossible I say THANK YOU!!!

Elaine Macomber
North Quincy, MA

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Coach Derosia was a mentor to me throughout my four years in high school. He started as my JV hockey coach and eventually became someone that I could go to for anything. Coach Derosia is someone who I admire in the way that he works, his effort, his attitude, and most imortantly the way he leads. As an Assistant Principle in the high school I went to, he was not someone who wouldn't intimidate the students so they didn't cause problems, but he got to know most of the students who he worked with and this was his way of keeping order within the school. Coach Derosia was a man who I have looked up to for the past four years, and he played a main role in making me the person that I am today. I hope that I can have the same influence on the people that I work with this semester and throughout the rest of my life, as Coach Derosia did on me.

Todd DeAngelo
Hampden, MA

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I was 15 years old when I went away to Military School. It was only 2 hours from my home, but might as well been 1,000. The first several weeks I was extremely homesick and feeling pretty lost. There were actually several cadets who helped or mentored me during those first months. John Saltzman, who was my squad leader was the first to show compassion and to make me feel that everything would be okay. But there was one teacher who made the most difference for me during my 4 years at Oklahoma Military Academy. His name is Gary Easley. He was my History teacher, and my baseball coach. I remember that even though History was not a favorite of mine that Coach Easley inspired me to want to learn. He always had a calm and kind demeanor, and had a genuine concern for his students. In one of our baseball games I hit a ball between left and center field. When I connected with the ball, I thought to myself that this was my best hit.. ever. After I came back to the dugout, Coach Easley put his hand on my shoulder and said, "Gary, I think that was the hardest I've ever seen you hit a ball". I think what made Gary special to me was that he cared. He made me want to be better, to do good. Since I left OMA, I have done better... I have done good. Thank you Gary Easley for being a mentor to me!

Gary Good
Oklahoma City, OK

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Mr. Fermon was my fifth grade teacher. He was also the first male teacher I ever had. I was mad to find out that I had received him as my teacher because I didn't think his intelligence could live up to my previous female teacher's intelligence. I also expected him to be less understanding and much more firm. However, he taught me that all of my stereotypes were wrong. Today, he has stood out as my favorite teacher who taught me things I could not learn from textbooks. I learned that men are equal to women, and everyone has their own style of teaching.

Roseleen Dello Russo
Revere, MA

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It was a Friday afternoon in December 1994 when I met for the first time my mentor Larry Foster. I had gone to his office fully expecting that I might have at most 20-30 minutes with him and I was happy and appreciative of whatever he was willing to share with me. I was in for a big surprise! That afternoon Larry very warmly welcomed me into his corner suite office overlooking the north Dallas Tollway in a prestigious office complex. He was casual, friendly and open with his conversation and I was intrigued by his questioning ability and his genuine interest in me. He showed by both his words and actions how down to earth and approachable he was. He invested well over an hour in our first appointment and it was memorable in many ways. That day was the beginning of a long time friendship and mentoring relationship over the past 12 years. During the months and years that have followed that initial meeting Larry has repeatedly given generously of his time, his contacts, his wisdom and his concern for me. He has introduced me to all of his family, his business associates and many of his friends both near and far. He opened doors of introduction that led to business contracts and repeatedly gave me high recommendations. His positive, funny and light hearted humor has endeared him to me and he was one of those who I was able to confide in during the dark hours of my divorce. I honor my friend and long time mentor Larry Foster today on National Mentor Day with this tribute to his influence and support in my life and to thank him for the success I've enjoyed.

George Hendley
Richardson, TX

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There are a "Rare Breed" of select individuals in life that come along (if you are fortunate and blessed enough) to touch your life with such an "IMPACT" as you have touched mine, of which I am and always will be ETERNALLY GRATEFUL. Words could NEVER express my appreciation for all you have done for me...both in the past and as you still do presently everyday. You have not only believed in me from the beginning and virtually lauched my career through the major television and radio exposure you granted me through the magnificent years we've shared together, but that of countless STARS you put on the map... making them the STARS they are today, including myself! You're Love, kindness, generosity, inteligence, experience and your humble unselfishness is a "GOD Send", and a "Beacon of Light" as an example to the world.You are an "ICON" in the Entertainment Industry as a Radio and TV Celebrity,Author and the "KING" of Memorabilia.You Originated and Created what the World knows today as the{TALK/VARIETY SHOW}and hold the World's Record for interviewing and hosting the most guests to date in the History of TV.In your own words to me you told me that "I am Basking in the Shadow of Your Reflection,that you've believed in me from the beginning and that I'm Your "STAR".You Sir,MR. Joe Franklin... are my "MENTOR" in my Life and I am Honored that you've consented to portray the Role of my Mentor for my Up-Coming Feature Film "The MENTOR" for the World to see as a Testimony.I will live my Life Mentoring others with the same Love and Sharing that you imparted to me. GOD BLESS YOU,ALWAYS! Professionally and Respectfully Yours,

Pete DeLorenzo
Garfield, NJ

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My mentor was John Gay, a pitching coach that lives in Vancouver. I started going to him as a coach when i was 8. At the first clinic i did not know anything about what i was doing, having no clue how to throw the softball with control or speed as i had seen Megan Fowler do. She inspired me to try to become a softball pitcher; however she is not the one who has kept me going over 11 years. The first time i threw the softball to my dad it went wherever it wanted to go. Sometimes it would even bounce to him instead of hitting his glove in the air. Over the years John has taught me a good motion and has told me to trust my motion and the speed will come eventually. I did not want to trust him but i did, so i started out slow and easy just getting what he called the perfect motion to throw harder. He still does not believe i have an absolute perfect motion but that i have the potential to with hard work. Every pitching clinic i have ever gone to, John tells me the same thing every time....... "NO NO NO you're doing it all wrong,Do it like this," sometimes yes i would want to quit but then he would tell me with all this work i would be great. Every month during the winter when he would come down for the monthly pitching clinic and would video tape what we were doing right and wrong so that we could work on that until the next time he came down. I thought i would never get it right, but John kept pushing me telling me "You can do it, i believe in you." Before that I had NEVER had anyone that believed in me. I kept pushing myself to be the best i could be becauseI wanted to make John proud. Even now when I go to a pitching clinic, he smiles at me and then says in a smarty tone "ready to get your butt kicked," that was always his way of telling me that today was going to be hard on me and was I willing to go through it. Without him i don't know if i would be still playing and going to college on a softball scholarship.

Brittany Heiman
Richland, WA

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Mrs. Giovinco and Mrs. Guariligia mentor myself, my sister and my brother. I attend an elementary school in New York. We have 48 teachers who are in the mentoring program for our school. We do fun activities with our mentor all year long. We get to watch a movie, eat ice cream, go bowling and have a breakfast with our mentors. Most of all our mentor does extra crafts with us. We really love doing the crafts with them. We make cool things. It is nice to learn new things and spend time with them. They are very nice to us. M y Mentor is E xcellent N ice T errific O utstanding R eally generous S pecial to me.

Jennifer H., age 9
Hauppauge, NY

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I just wanted to take a moment to thank Doni for seeing the potential in me that I didn't know existed. I was a typical lost 18 year old kid with no goals for my life when I met Doni. He was my manager at a restaurant, and had hired me as a dishwasher. I was only working to make a little money to go out and party. I was on the verge of getting fired when Doni took me under his wing, and began to "show me the ropes" of life. Doni taught me how to set goals for myself. He taught me everything from how to coach people to achieve results, to how to pick out a shirt and tie that matched. Most importantly, Doni instilled a self confidence in me that still burns brightly 20 years later. I've been thankful that I met Doni every day since. I often mention him and our story to the employees that I supervise to this very day, always talking as if he were some legendary superhero. I do my best to have an affect on my employees like he did on me every day. When the occasional comment comes from an employee that they appreciate everything that I ever did to get the best out of them, I tell them this story, and tell them that I just feel an obligation to "pass it on".

Joe Garcia
Denver, CO

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I would like to thank my mentor for all the inspiration and motivation that she has filled me with. She is such a strong, disciplined woman whom I admire. In high school, all the students hated Algebra and they knew it wasn't easy in our class. Ms.Goff didn't sugar coat or make anything easy. She taught Math so that we could learn the concept and not just get the answer. Her lessons in class have helped me in my daily interactions in life. Although math was very easy for me, there have been things in my life that have not been so easy. But I would always remember Ms.Goff, and I would go through with whatever I had to even if it called for hard work. I will continue to be a mentor to others because I know how important it is to have a mentor that you really trust and believe in. If Ms. Goff did not enter my life, I would not have had a chance to experience her positive outlook on life. The lack of her in my life could have caused me to take a path that I would have regretted, so I thank God for that.

Earsene Scott
St. Louis, MO

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"Our magazine appeals to a certain clientel and you are still dressing for the modeling academy. You just MUST dress appropriately for this job!" the Editor scolded. Looking down at my peach safari outfit tucked neatly into my designer leather boots,I adjusted the cotton scarf tied around my then young neck. Tossing my long curls over one shoulder, I squared her in the eyes and sassed, "Take a good look, Denny, 'cause this is as straight as I get." She stared back in disbelief and silence filled the room for what seemed like minutes, then she howled with laughter. She typed out my statement and posted it in her office for years. Denny Gordan has been my mentor for over thirty years. My job was in sales but one month Denny let me write a short fashion article for the magazine. She loved the way I started my little article and her enthusiasm made me remember three decades later the actual words I wrote: "light, bright and carefree." They were simple little words but Denny loved them and she made me so proud. She made me believe in myself. Denny Gordan is a class act from Gross Point, Michigan and we come from very different worlds. But Denny always included me in her social affairs. She took me to fancy parties and introduced me to fancy friends.She played up the good in me, and if she ever saw the bad, she laughed it off.I wanted to be the person Denny saw in me. When I started a big job, Denny offered to buy me a suit. When I got homesick, she offered to send airline tickets. When I needed my first computer, she said to price a laptop. I never took Denny up on any of those offers, but I knew I could. Actually, I knew Denny would invest in anything I needed. But when I became a doctor at fifty years old, I believed I could write my own press release. Thank you Denny. When I grow up I want to be just like you.

Charlene Parrish
Thomasville, GA

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Aunt Sherry wasn't my favorite Aunt. I have no bad feelings toward her now for the nights she would come visit and take my mom away and tell my sister and me to go to bed. I have no bad feelings because now, I'm my mom in that situation. We share days and nights together like friends. I call her just like I would any other of my good friends. Many situations have arisen in my life, especially tough ones this past year, and during the last 3 years, Aunt Sherry has been there for every one of them. She helps me out with boy, work, and parent problems. The thing I love most about talking with her, is how no matter what decision I make, she applauds me for making good, mature choices. In one particular instance, I was being made to move in with my dad in Seattle. This was much more dramatic than it sounds, considering I've never had a great relationship with my dad. When my mom told me, I quickly tried to work out a way to try and live with Aunt Sherry. I asked her and my mom. Aunt Sherry said yes, my parents said no. So, I packed, cried, and talked it out, for a week. Through all my tears, anger, and feelings of abandonedment, Aunt Sherry was there. The night I went to say goodbye to her was so hard. I never want to cry or feel like that ever again. However, she was my standing post, she made me feel strong and optimistic. Maybe it was because she saw both sides of the story and felt for me. Really, it's because she unconditionally believes in me.

Casey Harpe
Richland, WA

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I am writing to thank my son's mentor. My son, Seamus is 9 years old, and as much as he adores Coach Hagen, he is too young to truly appreciate how lucky he is to have Kevin as his coach, and mentor. I also believe that Coach Hagen has no idea just how much we value his role in Seamus' life. We arrived in the North East (NY/Norhtern NJ)from Canada when our son was 7. He had just spent a year playing hockey for a very destructive individual in Toronto, Canada. His confidence was shattered, and he never wanted to play again. Kevin is the youth hockey director at our local rink. When he heard Seamus' story he agreed to skate with Seamus is the morning to help work on his skills, and boost his confidence. Seamus was leery, but after hearing that Kevin was also a transplanted Canadian, he agreed to give it a shot. Kevin has skated with Seamus at 6 am, once a week, every week for over two years now. In that time Seamus's skills have grown; he went from being one of the weakest players on his in house team, to making his rink's travel team for this season. He was so thrilled! He (and Kevin) had worked so hard to make this happen. More importantly, his confidence has blossomed. The other day we were talking about the importance of confidence, and I asked him what makes him feel good about himself. He told me "Mom, I believe in myself most, when I am on the ice with Kevin". I do not have the words to thank Kevin. He has taught Seamus to believe in himself, to work for what he wants, and that he can have faith in others. What he has done for Seamus goes so far above and beyond the role of coach. The impact that he has had on Seamus will affect Seamus for all of his life. I believe that Kevin personifies the definition of what a Mentor is. Thank you so much, Kevin.

Trish Page
Hastings, NY

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I wish to thank my mentor, Maria Halvorsen. Maria is an amazing source of light in the lives of everyone she touches and beyond. Maria is the COO of an organization who's mission it is "to support women CEO's, entrepreneurs and senior corporate executives by helping them grow their businesses and careers." She is extremely passionate and giving in everything she does. Besides the countless numbers of women she assists through her corporate work, she is also a devoted mother, friend, and teacher. In her "spare time" she teaches spiritual and personal development classes, empowering her students to have faith in themselves and to spread examples of faith, hope and love to others. When I began taking Maria's classes I was extremely shy and just coming out of a dark period in my life. Maria's support, wisdom, sense of humor, and compassion helped give me the strength to help myself, and to be able to be there for others in a way that I never before could. In addition to being a great mother, career woman, teacher & friend, Maria also holds other pastoral & leadership roles and responsibilities in her community. She is the busiest woman I know, yet her smile constantly shines the brightest. Her energy and enthusiasm is infectious. I am incredibly grateful for Maria?s constant dedication to improve the lives of those around her. I found my mentor at 31 years old. I hope that programs like this will encourage more mentors for children and young adults so that they too will find their Maria at just the right time! Thank you!

April Codair
Lynn, MA

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I have had meany mentors in my life, but the most memorable one is Darrell Hankins. He is the Seal coordinator for the western region. Chief Disharm hires him to come to the Tri-ctities once a month and train with the recruits that are trying to become Navy Seals or Special Warfare Combat Crewman. Darrell has a lot of experieince in this field because he served in The Special Warfare sector of the Navy for 23 years. Special Warfare is Seals, and SWCC. For 18 years he was on SWCC, then for an extra 5 years he was a Navy Seal. He has so many interesting stories. For example, he once told all of us recruits about a mission that he was on in Sout america, and it just sounded so exciting that i had to try out for SWCC! But most of all, he has so much useful information about the two programs. When he comes to the Tri-cities each month, we hold a training session at World Gym. Yakima, ellensburg, and Prossed recruits all come to the gym to take part in the training. At the last session, i got some suprising news. Darrell asked me to help him teach some of the recruits some swimming techniques! And this came as no big suprise to me because i am a lifeguard, swim lesson teacher, and i was on swim team for about 8 years! I was definently qualified for the job. Since that day, each month when Darrell comes to Tri-cities, i get to help the other recruits swim and get ready for their Seal, or SWCC tests. I feel really good that Darrell chose me to be his helper. Darrell is an amazing individual. I can only hope to do half of the long list of amazing things that he has donw willingly for his country. I am going to continue helping him train the other recruits until i ship out on August 7, 2007.

Kenny Callies
Richland, WA

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When I was approached with the question of was, there anyone in my life who I would like to thank for being a mentor to me, it only took me a few seconds to say yes, my parents. I grew up in a great home and had an awesome childhood. When I was 17 I found out that from my carelessness, that I was pregnant. My parents were gonna kill me I just knew it. I told them and the first thing out of there mouth was that they were disappointed but that there were worse things that I could of done and that they will be there no matter what. My parents were my rock when I thought my life was over. I thought about dropping out of school and my mom said, "I don't care if I have to take you to school and sit with you in class, you are going." Well seeing how that would be really embarassing I went on my own free will. I ended up graduating mid-term and with honors. My parents told me when I said I wasn't going to college that how can I give my son a better life if I don't better myself. I went to nursing school soon after. It was rough being a single mom, but I knew that it would be rewarding and would pay off in the end. My parents were always there for me no matter what time or reason. The thing that amazes me is that is isn't only with me, it is with everybody. My parents will help a starnger just like it was a family member and ask for nothing in return. They are constantly giving to others, and I have asked why. My dads response is, that is what I'm supossed to do, I have been blessed and it is away for me to show that god does still live inside of people's hearts. So that is why my parents are my Mentors. I love them and I thank god that he gave them to me.

Tonya Rudolph
Otterbein, IN

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One of my biggest mentors was my older brother Chad. Chad had a hard life and had been through many expirences, many of witch were bad. we used to live in Salinas California when I was little. I was really small and my brother was eleven years older than me. He was really cool in my eyes, every time i saw him. he would always go out and hang out with his friends, while I was staying at home with my parents. Every once and a while my family would travel to Nevada to visit my grandparents. When we were there my brother would be gone yet again. We left my brother behind to stay with my gtandparents. One Christmas my family got a phone call from him saying that he was in prison and he wasn't going to be out for a while. Tears came to my eyes relizing how long it would be before I would get to see my brother again. Finally the day came that i had waited forever to come, and I finally got to see my brother again. It had been a long time since I'd seen my brother with those time he was away, plus the six years he spent in prison. He had tattoos all over his body and a goatee on his face. It was during the summer and my brother and I spent every day together talking and hanging out. He told me about while he was away and all the experiences ha had been through. Everything that my brother had told me had a meaning to it. My brother always told me to learn from his mistakes and to never turn out like him. He told me that everything he had been through had been for a reason, so that i wouldn't have to go through what he had been through if i just learned from his mistakes. Later on in our life i started losing track of my brother as he moved away, barely keepin in touch. Then one day my family recieved another phonecall saying that my brother had a annurism and had died the last morning. TO this day and forever I will never forget what i learned from my older brother.

Craig Stanley
Richland, WA

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My mentor has been my mother. Ever since I was a young girl my mother always pushed me to strive to be the best in all that I did. Even when I didn?t believe in myself my mother always did. She never told me that I wouldn?t make it and she never encouraged me to quit. She always told me to finish what I started and that if I ever wanted to do something she said that I should always do it right the first time in order to prevent me having to do it again. My mother is my main inspiration, she has taught me to love god and to stick to things that I believe in. My mother is the most loving woman I know, she is true to her faith and to her belief that good things come to those who wait. I look up to my mother as the caring figure in my life as well as an example to what I want to be when I grow up. She is an accomplished woman who came from poverty and prospered. She loves the lord and the people around her and she is an inspiration to all she meets. But most of all, she supports me in all I choose to do.

Jasmine M., age 14
Mesquite, TX

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For a boss, friend, and inspirer, The right words... From "The Gift of Fear" by Gaven De Becker: "I have learned that the kindness of a teacher, a coach, a mentor, a neighbor, the parent of a friend, is never wasted. These moments are likely to pass with neither the child nor the adult fully knowing the significance of the contribution. No ceremony attaches to the moment that a child sees its own worth reflected in the eyes of an encouraging adult. Though nothing apparent marks the occasion, inside that child a new view of self might take hold. It is not just a person deserving of neglect or violence, not just a child who fails to solve its family's problems, who fails to rescue them from pain or madness or addiction or poverty or unhappiness. No, this child might be someone else, someone whose appearance before this one adult revealed specialness or lovability, or value." I've held onto being able to say that to someone deserving my whole life and no one else will ever hear that from me again. There was a moment I became no longer that child and it was because of your guidance, trust, and understanding. I thank you for being my mentor whether you know it or not, for being a person who did not take interest for a selfish reason, and for installing me with the courage to use my voice because you believed in me. If every person could have a small percentage of compassion that you have, this world would not be better, but the quality of people's lives would be positively immeasurable.

Kelley S.
Phoeniz, AZ

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My mentor, Mrs Horne-Lane has been deceased for a while now, but I still remember the profound effect she had on my life. She was my elementary school teacher. We have all heard the phrase "be all that you can be" Mrs Lane, pushed you (very gently)towards that goal. Her pushing was so gentle you didn't realize you were being pushed. Mrs. Horne-Laine instilled in me that there was nothing, abolutely nothing that I could not accomplish if I wanted it. I was bright and gifted, Mrs. Horne-Laine saw to it that my god-given talents were developed. I excelled as a student, she saw to my abilities being challenged. She taught in a one room school house in rural Georgia, yet she drove me around the state to compete in different competitions. She did this at her own expense.

Myra Bryant
Lakeland, FL

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In my life,there've been numerous of people.They're as many as the stars in the sky.It's too bad that these stars are quiet and don't catch much of people's attentions.However,I'm wishing there will be one star that is a meteor that will leave me some influential effects.If a meteor really appears,attentions must be caught.Even if it's a flashy moment,the feeling should be profound and memorable.I remember it was my sophomore year in high school and I had come to the US for just a few months.I felt that I was at a loss and disoriented because of the new environment.I was confused and didn't know what I should do.Fortunately,I met Jennifer from an after school program at Simmons College.Since then,I realized what a mentor was and how influential it was to impact my life.Jennifer was the program's coordinator and was responsible of students' academic progress.When students encountered any difficulties and concerns,Jen would be the first person to contact.I was among those students who'd like to talk with her when I felt anxious.I shared all my feelings with her.Then she counseled and enlightened me by conversations.It was her that I understood the saying of "hope is tomorrow."I and Jen didn't often keep in touch with each other since she went back to her hometown,but Jennifer's existence in my life was like the meteor grazing the sky,with resplendent light and deep impression.With this mentor experience with Jen,I understand if I would have an opportunity to become others' mentor,the important factors would be considerable.A good mentor should possess characteristics of patience,humor,consideration,communication,and responsibility.A mentor should be able to keep in touch with their students.If I could have a mentor again,I'd expect the mentor to care myself more and consider my needs.It's hard to find a good mentor,but it's harder to be a good mentor.

Gina Fang
Waltham, MA

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I had a hard time trying to remember the different things you had to learn in English last year but Ms. Hunt made it easy for me. I love English and no I understand it as well. She taught me how to write better essays and taught me better grammar. I have always had a pasion in writing and I wanted to become a writer but now I know I can and I am going to all thanks to the help of Ms. Hunt. Thank you so much for pushing me and making me do the things I had to do to make it where I want to be.

Cassandra Wilson, age 16
Mesquite, TX

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The lady who has more energy thsn the energizer bunny!! This is Margaret. She is the person that has mentored me unknowingly. From her I have learned most of what I know about youth. Through a program called Achievement, Developement, Awarness and Pride through Teamwork, better knowh as ADAPT she got me involved and showed me how to facilitate and conduct workshops for youth as well as parents.I have gotten certified in classes that I was not even aware of through her knowledge. She has referred me for futher trainings and(at times has paid for them). Through all of my trials and tribulations no matter how menial they may be she always shows me the light at the end of the tunnel. I know that she would never consider herself as a mentor to me but I do. If you look up the word mentor you will see that it is a friend, someone who you can trust and who exposes you to new horizons. That is Margaret. She has taken me to heights that I did not dream of before because I was comfortable where I was but she saw something in me that said that I could go highter and I have. She has also been a mentor to my 2 sons and I just want to say "Thank you from the bottom of my heart". I will forever remember all that you have taught me and given to me and my sons.

Ora Williams
Detroit, MI

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My mentor and friend is Mr. Lenton Jenkins Jr. of Southfield,, MI. He truly been a blessing in my life. We met when I was 17 years old, he and my dad worked out of the same income tax office. This is the beginning of my career preparing income tax returns. Years later when my dad passed, Lenton took me under his wing and continued to guide me as my dad had done. He allowed me to work beside him and assisting him in his Accounting practice. Years later Lenton told me that my dad asked him to look out for me and assist me when needed. Lenton has done that for the last thirty years. He has not only mentored and guided me in my professional life but in my private life as well. I want to acknowledge my mentor and true friend Lenton Jenkins Jr. Thank you with love always.

Sharon Jackson
Detroit, MI

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Five years ago I was 12 years old, walking the streets of southwest Atlanta without any hope for the future, failing grades and conduct in school, and no one cared for me. A young man by the name of Antonio Jennings was on his way to choir rehearsal and saw me sitting on the corner and noticed the awful look on my face. I remember very well that he missed choir rehearsal that night because he spent the entire evening talking to me about what I was going through. He was about the same age as I was, but he had a drive that I have never, ever seen before in my life. He had a deep concern for others and told me how he had been volunteering with different organizations since he was nine years old and how it has helped him to see the brighter side of life. He not only comforted me that night, he held my hand throughout high school. It is because of him that I left the gangbanging and other stuff alone. Today I am proud of myself and even prouder of this young man to took the initiative to stop and lend a help hand. I owe him a lot. He started an organization called Each One Reach One Community Impact Project at the age of 14 years old. He has not only tutored and mentored me, but many other at risk youth and found others volunteres to do the same. Here is his website: http://www.eachonereachone.dreamhosters.com.

Calvin Watson
Atlanta, GA

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I was a underpriveliged child in the early 70s and late 80s. I met Mrs. Cheryl Jennings a teacher in my school. She cared for me and saved my life. She helped me and tutored me so I could succeed in school and my personal life. She saved my life and because of her I was able to make good decisions and live my life to it's fullest.

Victoria Williams
Dallas, TX

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Hi, My name is jacky and I am 16 years old. This past summer I went to a christ in youth program and they talked about having a mentor. After thinking about it i came to the conclusion that it may be a good idea. I thought about people that i was close with and who i thought could inpact my life in a postive way. I came to Robyn over and over again. It has been one of the best desicions i have made, she has helped me in a number of ways. She is one of my best friends. i can count on her for anything. She is a truly amazing women. She is very open with her thoughts and lets me know if what i am doing is wrong. Her and her family have been great. I lover her kids and her husband. They are very nice and caring people. They have aloud me to become a part of their life and i am so greatful for that. Thank you Robyn for everything. OJ!

Jacky B
Ohio

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has taught me to read to build my self esteem to help me set goals.She has assisted me and has helped my family .she has gone above and beyond the call of duty for a nyc public school teacher .She has been teaching at ps 42 Queens for over 20 years. Hats off to Judy Kaber -Koretz.

Reinaldo Sierra
Arverne, NY

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We began the ClaimSmentor program in December 2005 as a tribute to William Robert Kane, Sr on the 5th anniversary of his death. Mr Kane was my father, my mentor, and my friend mentoring me every step of the way during my 28 year career with State Farm. We are now located at www.claimSmentor.com with 545 members at our first anniversary. We have over approximately 67 adjusting firms now participating to help us mentor new adjusters to enhance the entry into the Insurance Property Claims profession and to give them a start in this industry and over 100 experienced adjusters helping us mentor new adjusters providing a roadmap to success in the adjusting field as Independent adjusters. We wanted to take this opportunity to thank all the mentors participating on our site for helping other new adjusters carrying on the legacy of William Robert Kane, Sr and the effect his mentorship had on my career.

Deborah Moroy
Destin, FL

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My mentor is my stepmother. When I was two my parents divorced, and my stepmother stepped into my life. We are very close, and even though we aren't blood-related we are so much alike. She has provided a lot of support, even though I am not her [biological] child. Even as a small child, I called her "Momma," even though I visited my [biological] mother every couple of weeks. She was always there to comfort me and motivate me, from my first day of Kindergarten, to long division, performing that perfect soccer juke, and keeping me on track in my life. She listens to my amateur guitar music for hours on end and is always attentive, always there to give me that little bit of constructive criticism. She has allowed me to grow, and always pushes me to live up to my potential, and to shoot for the stars. I am thankful for Laura Ann Gathright Kaun. Without her, I would not be the person I am today.

Nick Kaun, age 15
Mesquite, TX

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I think a mentor is a very big help because a lot of kids that need them don't have them. I also think a mentor should be a smart person so they can be able to help you with your homework. They should also be very patient with you. My mentor May is a very nice,smart, interesting person.

Mayra Trejo
Costa Mesa, CA

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My most important and favorable mentor is my eldest cousin, Michael Kondratyuk. He being the oldest from us cousins has made me want to be like him. He is more like a motivator, hero and a good role model all at the same time. This all started once he became the youth pastor at my church. He helped me see how I could make a good contribution to my church. I was always the shy one in the crowd. He would keep asking me to go say something in front of the congregation. Being respectful like I am, I didn't want to refuse. This has helped me to preach at an early age. Michael has helped me improve on my social and people skills. But he didn't sop their, he encouraged me to join the youth group choir. After doing so, I thought, 'It's not too bad.' Afterwards, maybe a year or so later, he encouraged me to join the actual church choir. Although this was quite stressful, I deeply enjoyed it Michael would keep building me up, showing me to have a positive attitude. One day when some boys were saying mean things about me, Mike would come up to them and say. 'Hey, that's my cousin you're talking about, would you be saying the same thing if God was right here next to you listening?? This made the boys think twice before saying something bad again. That is why Mike is my hero. Another thing I observed was that Mike would always look at people from the inside. Not judging them by what race, color, or ethnicity they were. This has taught me to treat everyone equally. Because I can tell him my problems, and he tries to help me, Michael is a good mentor.

Igor Grinchuk
Richland, WA

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Mrs. Kownurko was my accounting teacher in high school. I had taken accounting as an elective my sophomore year and most kids in the class were seniors trying to fulfill a math credit. I was interested in the class because I thought that was the field I wanted to study but at this point in my life I really wasn't sure of anything I wanted to do. Mrs. Kownurko must have seen something in me because she recommended me for a high school internship program that was only supposed to be for seniors. This was a program I knew nothing about but was eager to get involved in. Had she not gotten me into the internship, I would not have had that experience to guide me into my college career. I also would not gotten some of the direction needed to get where I was headed. I accredit the unspoken guidance of Mrs. Kownurko to me solidifying my direction in college and getting my started on my career in accounting!

Nicole Grant
Chalfont, PA

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I think a mentor should be someone who helps you on your homework and someone who motivates you. my mentor stephanie helps me on all my homework. she is very smart and im happy to have her as my mentor. A mentor should have a lot of patience. they should take things slow and calm.

Amairami Sanchez
Costa Mesa, CA

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I grew up around construction sites, but never learned basic carpentry. Years later, as a first time homeowner, I mentioned that I was going to buy some shelves over the weekend. Henry, owner of the office building where I worked, overheard and said don't buy them, build them. He sketched out basic plans and told me what type of wood to buy. With a few basic tools, I began to build my own shelves. It took me about a week- I'd get so far, then run into a new problem. Every morning I'd track down Henry and ask him new questions. Patiently, he walked me through the process. I've built more and more complex furniture since then, but I never would have become a carpenter without the help of Henry Law.

David Liebel

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Bob lockwood is a fantastic mentor . he taught me that being blind is actually ok. He taught me how to live and cope with my blindness. He is a positive role model. He makes you laugh. Another good quality about him is that he always listens to what i have to say and doesn't judge me . He also has a funny side. not always serious . we joke a bit , but then we are sometimes serious . it all depends on what my mood is . It is also good to have bob because he knows what i've been though . So thank you Mr. Lockwood for mentoring me . we have really learned a lot from each other.

Ben Micek
Omaha, NE

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Dear frank: thanks for helping me with things I need help with. I haven't forgot your cool magic cards tricks. Your really cool & really amazing. you are the bomb. Thank you for not being mean when i get in troble. you rock dude.

Daniel Penaloza, age 11
Santa Ana, CA

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We all have those special people in our lives who have taught us so many life lessons that they didn't even realized they were teaching. My special person is Marsha. She is the most AMAZING person I know! If i didnt have her in my life, I could honestly say that i don't know where i'd be today. She has been there for me through many difficult times encouraging me and loving me when I felt unlovable. I tell her all the time how important she is to me and how much I love her but my words are not near enough to explain the depth of what I mean. She has been my mother figure when I've needed it the most, my cousin, my friend, and my mentor.She carries herself with such grace in the best of times and in the worst of times that I could only dream of being like her when, in fact, I know I'll never come close. She's not perfect, and I know that, but that's what makes her so amazing. She's a real person. Thank you Marsha for being who you are-you're AmAzInG!! I love you with all of my heart!!

Brittney Lovan
Willow Springs, MO

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Our mentor Mrs.Lucowski is so nice. Every hoilday she gave us gifts. We also gave her one back. Not only is she nice she is funny. She tells us jokes all the time. She plays a lot of jokes on us. She never says that we do something bad. She also always wants to know what is going on in our lives. She asks us what we did that day, or how are you feeling, or how is so and so doing. She makes us laugh when we are sad, she helps us to calm down when we are mad. She is everything in a nut shell. She is the best mentor ever.

Toni and Frankie A., age 11
Dix HIlls, NY

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Hi Michael. Thank you for coming here, and,thank you because your the coolest mentor I probably know. These are some words that I describe your personality: tremendous, intelligent, on time (Even though I hardly see you on some days.) Even though you might not be here any longer, you`ve really made my 6th grade year really awesome. Thank you and I hope to see you next week. From your mentee.

Jovany L., age 11
Santa Ana, CA

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Dear Cynthia: Thank you for being my mentor. You're a nice mentor. These are some words that describe you're personality responsisble, cool, funny, nice, honest, patiece, helpful, amazing, supportive, smart, pretty, and you respect my friend. Thank you for helping me with the things I need. I relly appreciate you spending your time with me. I want you to know that you're the best mentor I had in my life. thank you a lot. I want you to know that I love you a lot. I want you to meet my family. Thank you for being my mentor.

Stephanie C., age 10
Santa Ana, CA

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My father has always been the biggest influence in my life. My father did not have much growing up. He knew that he wanted more for his own family, and pushed himself to do the best he could at everything he did in his life. After going to college he went to dental school and opend up his very own dental practice in New York. He has come such a long way from where he was as a child, and becasue of that he showed me that I could do whatever I set my mind to. He is a great father, husband, dentist, and most of all friend.

Jillian Meshnick
Waltham, MA

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I have been involved with theater at my high school since freshman year, but at the en of my sophomore year our director announced that she was pregnant and could no longer direct. Therefore, we had to find a new director. Elicia Mertens, 'Mizzle', was awarded the job and began during my juior year. Our winter musical was "Into the Woods," and I was cast as Cinderella's mother and soprano understudy. Around the end of our fall play, I began to develope digestion problems which swiftly became worse during the musical. As it turned out, I was suffering from a dereriorating gall bladder, but it never came up on the scans. My body couldn't handle digesting fat and so I got sick quite often. Mizzle understood that there was definitly somethnig wrong with me, ans so she told me to do only as much as I could. I didn't want to dissapoint her or anyone else involved, and so I pushed myself to show up every day, sing louder, dance harder, and literally give it all the energy I could on an empty stomach. The show was a huge success and I felt proud to be a part of something so wonderful. At the end of the year I was honored with the award for most improved because of my efforts, but I truly believe I wouldn't have done so well if Mizzle hadn't believed in me throughout the year. To this day I still feel that drive in me to be the best performer I can be, knowing that if I could survive that , I could sing, dance, or act out any challenge.

Shayla McKee
Richland, WA

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Dear Manny: thank you for helping us win the soccer game. you are really fun. when you come i hope to have lots of fun. I want to enjoy the program with you. I see you as a Big brother to me. When you come i hope you tell some things that you do in the fire department.

Jason Aguilar, age 11
Santa Ana, CA

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Dear Lorreline: Thank you for come here , and I am proud to have a mentor like you. I describe you, amazing intelligent,and honest. I really enjoy when you come because is nice. I hope you come to see me. you're a great mentor! thank you.

Kimberly Benitez , age 10
Santa Ana, CA

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As a young band student I thought I heard great music... then I heard Gordon play and for the first time was exposed to a totally different level of musical performance. As I progressed further and kept learning not only what Gordon taught about musicianship but how great musicians held themselves (life lessons) I knew that I wanted to give back what I had received and follow in his steps as a music teacher. I have been in the music education field for over 10 years and am not looking back. Gordon, you gave me the gift of music and filled me with a desire not only to play well but to uphold high standards. I will always be greatful and never forget. I also will pass on what you taught by example to those I teach.

Donald Moore
Caldwell, ID

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There were many people in my life that have inspired me to be the person that I am. All of which have a special place in my heart. It was a college professor that stands out for me, Dr. Laura Nissen. I was at college at MSCD in the Center for High Risk Youth Studies and wanted to go into the area of Social Work. I started to work for Dr. Nissen as a work study position. From the moment that I met Dr. Nissen I wanted to be the kind of Social Worker she had become. I cannot remember a day we were together that I was not inspired by her, her excitement for youth and for teaching. We had these wonderful conversations about youth, mentoring, policy and social work, which still to this day inspire me. She helped me to see that I was smart and worthy of the work I was studying to go into. She always encouraged me to have the highest standards and moral fiber that she knew I was going to need to work in a challenging area; and to never forget that the youth of today need strong and capable leaders to help guide them to the future. She also encouraged me to go back to college to get a Master's degree in Social Work. The road I have been on has been challenging, to say the least, but it continues to be a road I travel because of the words, wisdom and love that I received from a small college professor in Denver Colorado. Thank you Dr. Nissen!!!

Danica Brown
Denver, CO

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Bart Nolan was an assistant professor at the Ashtabula branch campus of Kent State University for 46 years. I first met Bart in September of 1970 when I first started college. He was an interesting character who started off his history class reminding students that he expected all work to be handed in as requested regardless what might happen. He told us that even if we wanted a grade posthumously we had to hand in our papers. The next class date arrived with considerably less attendees. Bart always provided an element of dry whit in all situations. He never treated us like kids but rather like partners in the educational arena. He followed our progress while expecting the most from us on a daily basis. Throughout the years I was able to exchange Christmas cards with Bart, always relishing the news of my alma mater translated by his continued repartee into living facts. Many years have passed since my first day of college and for the first time this Christmas time arrived without a card from Bart. I learned at Christmas that Bart had died in September and for the first Christmas without his presence I realized how much of an impact he had made in my life. Thanks for allowing me the opportunity to share this great man with you.

Sarah Murphy
Indianapolis, IN

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IT IS NOT EASY TO FIND SOMEONE WHO TRULLY CARES FOR ONE'S UPLIFTMENT........'FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD...........THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM WILL NOT PERISH BUT HAVE AN ETERNAL LIFE',SO SAYS THE SCRIPTURE.FOR ME ,IT MEANS..........'FOR GOD SO LOVES NIGERIAN YOUTHS THAT HE SENT HIS RIGHT-CHOSEN MAN THAT WHOSOEVER FOLLOWS HIS ADVISE WILL NOT GO ASTRAY BUT SHALL LIVE TO SHOUT HALLELUYAH. THANKS TO MY MENTOR.YOU ARE ONE IN ONE HUNDRED MILLION MENTORS!!!!

Odekunle Waliyu Olaboyede
Ibadan, Oyou State, Nigeria

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Baseball for me as a kid was the sport to play. Joe orick was a good coach from around my neighborhood. It was my second year of baseball and I was at the second day of tryouts when Joe came up to me and asked for my name. That year he chose me to be on his team. I played for Joe every yeear for the next six years, except one. I also played fall ball with him as my coach. He became a good friend to me and my family. Every year Joe would push me until I couldnt go on. I was the slowest guy on the team for the first few years, but Joe would push me to keep going and try to run my hardest. He would constantly tell me how good a ball player I was and how, if i were faster, I would be one of the best batters on the team. His telling me this would bring up my confidence and would make me want to work twice as hard. So after awhile I became faster and was no longer the slowest guy. Also my last year I had the best batting average on tmy team. Joe was a great mentor to me because of how hard he mushed me. He taught me to believe in myself and to never give up even when nothing seems to be helping improve what you are working so hard to make better.

Nathan B.
Pasco, WA

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I remember in elementary school and middle school, all the girls would give their best friends a necklace. Generally, it would be two sides of a heart, with the word "best" on one side and "friend" on the other. Each one would wear a side of the heart as a necklace, keychain, or whatever. Well, when I was eight I had one with a dolphin design on it and I kept the side that said "best" and gave the side that said "friend" to the most amazing lady in the whole world. This lady was my grandma, or as i called her, Nanny. She is the most eccentric, crazy,ditzy,caring, and raddest person in the whole world. She mentors me in a way that varies from most. My view of life has always been something more than academic success or striving to make everyone like you all the time. My veiw has been to laugh at least 543 times a day and make everyday an adventure. I definatly learned this from my Nanny. I get to spend every summer with her at our Southern Florida condo. We have crazy times together. This is what makes her my mentor. The ability to go out and do a normal activity, such as going to the movies, and coming home with a story to tell. This one time we wanted to go to the movies. And let me tell you, this movie theatre was adimant on not letting anyone bring in food or drinks from outside sources. Well, my Nanny and I prepared two huge bags of our own fresh popped popcorn and upon our arrival to the movie theatre she hid one under her sweater and I hid one in my huge handbag. We got in and just busted out laughing. "Some people smuggle drugs across the border, or a candy bar from a store... but no, we smuggle popcorn INTO the movie theatre. WE ARE HARDCORE!" she said. We laughed forever about that. She is the one that gave me the ability and even the strengh to forget about person maddoging you when you are in the movie theatre lobby,laughing so hard tears are falling out of your eyes as you pull a bag of popcorn from underneath your shirt.

Nicole Gaston
Mercer Island, WA

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