A ward of the court, my days were filled with depressing people telling me that I would never amount to anything because of my lot in life. Despite my hard work, stable personality and my drive, I was told that "statistically speaking", chances of me making anything of myself were not very good. During my early college years, struggling to survive on minimum wage, going to school full time, working as an Intern for no pay, Mrs. Bascom provided me with the motivation to keep my goals alive, she encouraged me with kind words and what I valued most was that she believed in me. This quiet strength and advice she offered, was what got me through my darkest hours. She also hired me as a professional when I graduated and 20 years later we are still very close friends.

Irene Pabon
Ocoee, FL

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I would like to sincerly thank Mr. Becha for being my mentor. When I met you, my life changed. You have taught, guided, counselled and motivated me. I am who I am because of your love patience and support. Thank you for helping me get education, assisting with my assignment, giving me character, correcting me where i go wrong and being my daddy and a daddy to my sisters too. You are my role model. You have achieved great things in life and i promise i will not let you down. I will work hard to make you proud. May God bless you and your family and give you long life, health and wealth. I love you daddy..

Mary Nyumu
Nairobi, Kenya

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My mentor taught me that everything in the world has consequences. Also that everything that happens in the world happens for a meaning not one accident.

Kathleen Thompson
Cortez, CO

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In elementary and middle school I was a horrible student. Sue Bombrys was our middle school principal. She took me under her wing in a way. I remember her never giving up on me... even when my family life was horrible and I was acting out because of that. She would always make time to say hi to me in the hallways or even in the lunch room.I think that her always being nice to me and believing in me let me prosper and I did end up graduating in the top 13 of my class!! And I did go to a great college and got an alright job for now. Now that I graduated from High School... I dont really know where she is ... but I would love to say THANK YOU and tell her that she is a GREAT person!!!! I really wish that people who mentor knew how much they impact a life of a child... because they do!! **And thanks to all of those people that donate their time and effort in helping children...like I was once!! Thanks!!

Samantha Anglemyer
Mendon, MI

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Growing up in a single parent home, I needed some positive male influences, that need was met by several men but one in particular stands out to me. Mr. James (Jim) Boyd was the Director of youth programs for the Indianapolis Urban League, I met him while in the sixth grade at Indianpolis Public School # 45. He taught me to always make good decisions and to think through possible outcomes before making choices. He will never know the indelible impression he left on my life. Much of my desire to help young people is the result of his unrelenting commitment to my sucess. Today I am a husband, father, and Pastor, because he took time to invest in my life, and I feel obligated to share the same principles with others. Thanks Mr. Boyd

Vionnta Traylor
Anderson, IN

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Mrs. Brabham was my amazing high school guidance counselor. She is one of my biggest role models. At a time in my life when I was lost and confused, she pointed me in the right direction. She gave me a sense of purpose when I needed it most. She believed in me and made me believe in myself. Mrs. B told me to not let others stand in the way of doing what I really wanted to do. She taught me so much about strength, courage and wisdom. She gave me an extra push, and I personally think that it was the little things that had such a profound effect; like her genuine smile, her warm words of encouragement or just turning something negative into a positive. If there were more people in the world like Mrs. Brabham, it would surely be an even more wonderful place.

Leena Hasbini
Riverview, FL

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Last year you were my teacher. That's all I had thought of you as. This year, however, brought upon me a new realization. You are more than just the person who watched over me during class. You taught me more than just math, you helped me to believe in myself. While in volleyball I started to understand you. I began talking to you as though you were not just another teacher. I love the discussions we have at school, though brief as they may be, there was always a reason to having them. There's one point in your lifetime where you find that one teacher, that one mentor, that helps you think in ways you never knew were true, that they inspire you so much, that you change the paths in your life you were planning to take. You see, in the time I knew you, I became a better person and I found that one person.

Arlina O'Camb
Cortez, CO

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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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To you,
You know that I am feisty, selfish, and controlling.
You know that I am kind, giving and hopeful.
You know that I don't have time and never will.
You know that I put forward everything that I can to make this place a better world.
You know that it is easy for me to not say a word.
You know that when it matters I can not ever not say a word.
You don't know that I often speak of you.
You don't know that I know what makes me me is you.
You don't know that I love myself because of you.
You don't know everything that you do.
You don't know that this world would not be possible every day if it wasn't for you.
You don't know how incredibly much I LOVE YOU!

Amanda Guthmueller
Spokane, WA

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My mentor, Cherice Amanda Cochrane, was my best friend. We met each other as neighbors. She was my inspiration, my confidant and friend. At six years old, I believe she was the smartest girl in my class. She taught me how to read and helped me to get over my weaknesses. Since first grade, we were always there for each other. I will never forget the night my dad committed sucide. My dad had planned it all. He asked her mom if I could spend the night with her and took his life that night. We went travelled through life's journey all the way to high school. Cherice not only boosted my self-esteem, she included me in organizations that were designed for African Americans only and encouraged me to live up to my true potential. My mentor and best friend died at the young age of 19 from meningitis at Tulane University, but her legacy lives on in her Mentoring Foundation; Cherice Cochrane Mentoring For Success. Thank you Cherice for seeing my potential and inspiring me to achieve success. I'll always cherish the moment!!!!

Melissa Quintana
San Antonio, TX

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Ms. Corsaro was my 5th grade teacher. I loved even the way she held chalk in her hand. She taught science. She coached softball. I was lousy in math and she let me keep score after school watching the games. I messed it up time after time--I just couldn't get it. She was extraordinarily patient with me. I would hang around her class after school. I never knew where she taught after she left our school, but she was a true role model and in that, a very positive teacher. Years later, I taught 5th grade and I taught science and later, math. I still didn't know what the heck I was doing in math. But I knew how to hold chalk like she did, and I knew how to be patient. I know I owe her a lot. She's in heaven now.

Claire King
Bloomington, IN

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I was youngest of eight, my brother, Cecil, was 6 years my elder. We'd had difficult times, when our parents divorced. He tried to attend college, but unable to, joined the Marines. I was a teenager. Starting then, he began making an impact on my life. I remember him encouraging me to pray each night. He stood up for me, when I was unable to stand for myself. He helped me see right from wrong, & stood by me through difficult times later in my life. When he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he battled it with every effort, with my sister & I standing by him. Then accepting the inevitable as gracefully as he could, his last request was, although I could not change the future for him (or our niece who was also dying of the same disease), to do all I could to change the future for others. Since then, I have strived to support the efforts of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (www.pancan.org), with my sister & I holding a benefit for the past 6 years; we began it in his honor, but it continues in honor of all those who face this disease. Before he died, I let folks know if they wanted to see him, they should come quickly. They came from other states for brief visits; he told me he hadn't realized how many lives he, a country boy, had touched. But he has since touched many more lives, living on through the efforts he's inspired, as I go to Wash, DC for my 3rd time this year, advocating funding of advanced research & working to increase awareness of this terrible disease. I am thankful for the inspiration my brother has been to me, as he's given me a mission in this life.

Virginia Griffin
Granbury, TX

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My Mentor PR Superstar Donna Dees. A savvy career woman, a dedicated mother, an endless ambassador for charities and just an all around awesome person are just some of the ways I would try to describe my mentor Donna Dees. Donna, who has over a 25 year track record in the PR and media industry, gave me a crash course in P.R. and provided me with useful and valuable tools that will undoubtedly carry me through my career. The advice and guidance she shared while I worked with her is invaluable. Donna, who has the remarkable ability of putting everyone around her at ease, is a person who becomes entirely dedicated and enmeshed in whatever project she is currently working on or challenge she is facing. A mentor, a friend, an absolute superstar in the PR world, there is not much more to say other than Donna Dees rocks! Thank you mentor!

Jessica Fielder
New York, NY

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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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My life in a Presbyterian Manse made me run all my life to my friend's homes to gather the many pieces necessary to form an ego strong enough to stay alive. Mama Ruth, as I called her, had fiery red hair, a little swimming pool and a heart that recoginized my need to be seen in the world as myself. She once told me that one of the most important things in life was to accept a compliment and feel no shame for the money I earned from her and didn't feel worthy to keep. She wouldn't believe how much hunger she satiated in me as a young girl with no parental parenting in a narcissistic home where warmth always felt cold. As an artist my focus is on supporting and comforting children through books to dispell the most primal fears. Thanks Mama Ruth.

Becky Carey
Wilmington, NC

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Thank you for joining mentoring and being my mentor. I know you'll always be there for me in the future so I'll just thank you for that now. It's great to come to mentoring because my mom is a tax accountant and it's almost taxes season and I won't get to see her that often anymore until April, so I'll like to talk to someone and have someone help me with homework or school problems. Thank you again so much for being my mentor.

Samantha Seebachan
Marietta, GA

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My mentor and inspiration is Maj (ret) Rese Farrish. He came into my life as a volunteer to the Cherice Cochrane Mentoring Foundation. Highly recommended by Gen (ret) John D. Hopper, Jr. Rese not only wanted to make a difference in the lives of young people, but he wanted to help continue the legacy of Cherice Cochrane (deceased). With a degree in Law, he used his expertise to incorporate the Cherice Cochrane Mentoring For Success Foundation and gain Tax Exempt status for the Foundation. Rese believed in me and assumed the position as President until his reassignment to Japan. Struggling to keep the Foundation alive, he agreed to provide leadership again in 2007 upon his retirement. Rese, how can I say Thank you for all that you have done in keeping my daughter's legacy alive. Because you believe in me, I am able to cherish her memories and live her dreams of providing young people with caring adults who inspire them!
Claudette Cochrane Lewis
Founder/C.E.O.

Claudette Cochrane Lewis
San Antonio, TX

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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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Dear Don, Thank you so much for teaching me a lot of things. You've taught me a lot about bowling and water sports - like knee boarding - and you've taken me to many cool things like Braves games, Falcons Games, and Dave & Busters. The coolest moment of my life is when I caught that foul ball by Andruw Jones at the Braves game with you! It has meant a lot to me to have you in my life. I've been able to brag about you to everyone and everyone is jealous that I have such an awesome big brother! Even though I've lost my Dad, I am so blessed to have you as my big brother! Your Little,

David Axford
Marietta, GA

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During the mid to late 70's I transitioned from middle school to high school. During my middle school days I was a good student...did after-school activities. The difference... my best friend was my big brother...and I'm the little sister. So I did "boy stuff" most of the time and dressed that way most of the time too. Elementary school was that way too unless I had an event to attend with my Great-Aunt Mary and Great Great Aunt Mary Elizabeth which meant wearing white gloves, hat, patent leather shoes...you know the whole business. By high school I was sent to charm class with Ms. Gupton who was also my 9th grade homeroom and English teacher. She was very poised and polished just like my Aunt Lizzie. She spoke very carefully not to offend or for the person to lose clarity. I really didn't want to go to her class. I liked the way I was...changing was out. Ms Gupton became my mentor. She would correct my word usage and my way of dressing. She did it all without saying it was unexceptable...rather than that she would say "Do you think this is appropriate and why?" When you run out of silly reason...one does see it's time to change. I did and became the better for it. I do the same pattern she taught me back then still today. When I see Ms. Gupton from time to time I always look to her finesse and leadership. She has taught me to present myself well at all times in manner and speech.

Mary Monica Porter
Wilmington, DE

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Mentor of the Year. If there were such an award, my mentor Pat Halverson would definitely be a contender. She is "worth her weight in gold". Not only is she a great teacher, but also an awesome mentor. She made my transition to the school district and our particular school a very enjoyable and pleasant one. As a mentor, she makes herself very available to answer questions and offer assistance. Her care and humor puts students and staff at ease. Day in and day out, it is such a comfort to come to school and know that she will be there. Her expertise will definitely be missed when she retires sometime in the future. So, for however long that I am privileged to work with Pat, I will cherish those days and always be grateful for her year of mentorship. There is not a better mentor a new teacher could ever have. Although she is minimally compensated by the school district, Pat is truly worth her weight in gold. Thanks for being my mentor, Pat!

J. Kosinski
Racine, WI

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Mr. Hancock was my Gr 6 & 7 teacher. He believed in me. He encouraged me. And, he gave me hope. Because of this, I found some small belief in myself that continued to grow. I'm now 47 years old, have two amazing children who both have a giving spirit, who both act as mentors to their friends and others they meet along the way. Three years ago, I completed a Masters degree in Communication. As I walked across the stage to receive my certificate, it was of Ray Hancock that I thought. So, if anyone reads this and knows Ray Hancock who taught in Cache Creek, BC, please tell him that HE made a difference. I also work for Big Brothers Big Sisters; one of the best mentoring programs around! Pass it on..

Joanne Rosen (Evans)
Nanaimo, BC
Canada

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It was such an honor to be one of Harry Hauck's swimmers. My family was very poor, very large, on welfare, living with violence and drunkenness, which was the norm in my Detroit neighborhood. The Patton Pool family led by Harry Hauck took me in as a skinny kid from family of nine children and showed me that I had talents and that I could develop those talents. My Detroit Patton Pool family helped me experience love, friendship, team spirit, companionship, discipline, goal setting, a tremendous growth in self-esteem and self-confidence.

Coach Hauck changed my life. My life would have taken a different turn if not for him. He shared his time, wisdom and love with a skinny kid from the streets of Detroit. Coach helped me see a different life, one that I was not seeing in my house. I believe that without the intervention of my swimming family I would not have grown in to the loving, caring, productive person I am today.

At times I feel like I have lived several lives. Growing up in poverty and violence, being a swimmer, leaving home to join the Marine Corp, getting an education, an advance degree, having a family, having a successful career helping people, and becoming a grandmother. Coach Hauck influenced every stage of my life. I am a better person for that experience.

The "Hawk" what can I say "You are the Man!" You left an impression on me that drives my life. Thank you for being a ripple in my sea of life. If I never told you before. I want to tell you now. I love you and I am grateful to you and the Patton family for all you have done for this 60 year old woman.

Joan Makkonen Johnson
Lansing, MI

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My fifth grade teacher influenced me in many ways. Not only was she pretty but she was articulate and above all believed that I would succeed, given that I had the tools to do so. She spent many hours tutoring me on my math and took me above and beyond what was neccessary for 5th grade math. If not for her patience, and peaceful guidance, I would not be the person that I am today. If there were ever a way to thank you Carol I would. You have been a shining light to me during the hardest time of my life. If only she were able to hear what a difference she made in my life. I am now a college graduate and am making great strides professionally and personally. I am also a mentor and have great respect for all those that have made a deliberate choice to not give up on me. I believe that children may have to face many challenges and difficulties but along the way mentors can make a monumental difference in their desire to achieve success!

Angela Reynolds
Vancouver, WA

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As I approach my 55th High School reunion this summer, and after living a very successful life, I thought of the man who started me on the right path to living the good life. My high school football coach in Dothan, Alabama taught me how to have confidence, be a team player and have a winning attitude. I was from the poorer side of town, but that made no difference to him, and showed me that it should make no difference to me either. After high school, I never forgot those lessons, as I am sure many hundred others that he coached did not forget them either. He is dead now, but the high school stadium carries his name.

Tommy Wilkes
Birmingham, AL

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John was my next door neighbor. He took the time to pay attention to me and to teach me how to throw a baseball, how to catch. He taught me to laugh out loud when I was happy and to cry in his arms when I was said. On weekends he sometimes drove me to his work in an open red jeep, that was a very big deal in the late 40's. He took me to a Brooklyn Dodger game and introduced me to Jackie Robinson, that was incredible. The very best thing he gave me was to accept me as me. He never criticized me or tried to change me in any way, it made my life so perfect. Thank you John!

Sylvia D'Avanzo
Huntington Beach, CA

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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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A sure guide when needed. He is a great mentor,with someone like him you just want to be the best in whatever you do.

Agatha Emina
Iagos, Nigeria

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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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I found this site about a month too late. My mentor and dearest friend died March 23, 2007. I met Cassie when I was 20 and she was "thiry-ish". I was running with a rough crowd and heading downhill fast, having moved to the metro area from a small town on my own. Cassie put up with my late night hysterical phone calls and tearful ramblings for a couple of years. She was gentle but firm in her guidance and advice. She used words with me like "upward motivated" and "tremendous". Eventually I graduated college and am now in a professional position. I don't think I would be here if I hadn't had her to guide me. I told her so, just hours before her death and I told her that I hoped she knew that she had changed my life. And now when I work with people, I use words like "upward motivated" and "tremendous".

Crystal McLaren
Oklahoma, OK

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Jimmy was a fantastic mentor. One who changed my life. Thank you!

John Legend
Cambridge, MA

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My mentor, Chris Johnson is an inspiration to me!! I don't only look at him as a mentor, I see him as a father figure. Chris has done so mch for me and has given me so many encouraging words which inspires me to be the young man I am. The one thing that I like about Chris is that he has been through something and that shows that no matter how bad it seems or how bad the situation is that God can turn it all around and make something great out of it. He has started a mentoring group in the community called "Young Men Of Integrity" in which I am a leader. The program teaches children about substance abuse, how to be a man, how to become successful, and also teaches us about how gangs are not the way to get money, power, and respect. We have also learned alot of other things. We participate in postive things in the community with different organizations, such as the United Way, and Exdodus Homes to name a few. As I come to a close in this letter, I would like to say that I love you Chris, and I thank you for everything that you have done for me!!

Phrank Moses
Hickory, NC

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I would like to thank my Big Brother. The things that we do together are awesome. I am really glad that I met Andy and that we do so many things together. The fun things that we do are go to the movies, & I learned how to ride a dirt bike and he teachs me new things every weekend. I have really improved at home with my mom & sister and also my grades.This is a SHOUT OUT TO YOU ANDY!!!!!!!!!! Thanks and you're AWESOME!!!!!!

Nico Vivirito
Joliet, IL

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IA mother not just to me but to all. Founder of Afrigrowth Mentoring Programme. She has taught me and a lot others what mentoring is all about. Mummy you got us there and encouraged us to leave the BIG TOE in, what more could a great mentor do. You are the best. Thank you for your care.

Agatha Emina
Iagos, Nigeria

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Over the years, I've had two mentors who significantly impacted my life. The first was my father, Walter Raymond Wood, who taught me how to live my life to be a good human being and to leave things better than I found them. Years later, I met and married Jim Kostielney. Jim taught me how to identify and achieve my goals. He taught me two "business mantras" - spend the company's money as I would my own and remember that my primary job was to make my boss look good. Those two concepts have served me well for over 24 years. Jim took sole responsibility for my three children as well as his own three while I returned to and graduated from college. Without him, I would not be the person I am today, nor would I love my life as I do. He has mentored countless individuals and families, helping them to have better lives and to become the people they'd always wanted to be. He has taught thousands of people, of all ages and from all walks of life, how to build homes, how to create and cherish a family, and how to live good lives. Jim now has an inoperable brain tumor. His generosity, thoughtfulness and caring for others, though, will remain with us for generations.

Janet Wood Kostielney
LaPorte, IN

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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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Sherrie Krumm is an inspiration to my life. In 1998, I entered the foster care system at the age of 16 years. She came into my life at a critical time when I was first place into care. She spoke to me in a way that made sense. She talked that culture is learned and as long as you are loved color should never be an issue to mentor somebody. When I graduated from high school she was there with my African American foster mother. My peers asked about my parents and I said my mentor and my grandmother are here. In 1997, I received a double degree from CSUN. She told me that she was very proud of me. In 1994 I became the founder of a mentoring program in California best known as Wendys Kids,Inc. She taught me to follow my purpose and to give back. Today and always, I would like to tell her that I thank her for her unconditional love, patience, and financial support.

Wendy Perlera
Glendale, CA

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Straight out of college, finding my way, married and having a baby, I was invited under the wings of Sue Levine. Sue's guidance, patience, kindred spirit and endless supply of positivity helped me to balance my new life and to still reach for the stars! Sue led by example. In doing so, she taught me so many wonderful life lessons and encouraged my continuing education. She opened her arms and her door to my family. I could always count on Sue for a laugh, a good cry, or a shoulder to lean on. I think of her often to this day and thank God for bringing her into my life. 22 years later, I still believe Sue is one of God's Angels who live here on earth to help others find their way.

Chris McGrenera
Winfield, IL

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I am a 5th grader at Bretton Woods Elementary. I am greatful for all the time and effort Mrs. Leyhane has given me. She is a great teacher and someone that I admire. She has taught me to be strong and have confidence in all that I do. I will miss her when I go to middle school and will never forget all she has taught me. I am a better person for just knowing her. Thank you so very much!!!!!!!!!!

Briana Giordano
Hauppauge, NY

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She was a "real" teacher. She was the only teacher in my high school who bothered to talk to her students about them, not just about academics. Other teachers would pretend to talk to the students, but they were just participating in the adolescent popularity contest. Ms. Little didn't care how popular she was, she just took the time to talk and listen.

Anonymous

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Mike was a retired Navy Fighter pilot and trainer who owned the local coffee house in Oceanside, CA. I was only about 15 years younger than him so he wasn't a father figure or anything like that but he had a way of supporting me that I had never felt from anyone else. He completely believed in me and encouraged me in everything I did. I was in law school at the time and my husband and I had moved to CA from New York. We didn't know many people so the belief, encouragement and friendship Mike showed me meant so much. I have never met another man in my life who was as giving, accepting, loving and supportive as Mike Long.

Belinda Rachman, Esq.
Carlsbad, CA

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I chose her because she helps me solve problems when needed. She helps me get organised, she helps me be prepared and on time. She inspires me to get good grades in school and to keep trying even though I feel I just can`t do it any more. I feel like she is my life saver because she was there when my mom wan`t there. Tina is my foster mom that makes me feel safe in the big world. There are so many things that I am capable at doing and this is not one. But this is one,doing good at my visits with my mom and grandma. I really love the people that care for me.

Cheyenne Mclain
Cortez, CO

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Our mentor Mrs.Lucowski is so nice. Every holiday 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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Mrs. MacDonald (aka "Mac") was the choir teacher at Bartlett High School when I attended from 1978-1982 and had also been my brother's choir teacher at East High School in the early 70's. From her, I (and countless others) learned about staunchness, commitment and integrity. Around 1980 public school choirs were told they could no longer sing Christmas carols that had words such as Christ, Lord, Savior, etc. Mac simply let it be known that if they were going to sensor music that way than she would stop teaching choir. She retired the next year. Losing her was a loss for all future students who didn?t get to learn the many great life lessons that she had to offer. She always held you accountable for your own actions but was the first to tell you how proud she was when you had accomplished something. The lessons that she taught me were life lessons and I wouldn't be who I am today without knowing her.
Thanks Mac!

Judi Spry
Anchorage, AK

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The Best Mentor There Is: Mrs. Lesley McKay
I met Mrs. McKay when I started school. With a lot of things in school, I have come very far. Now, I am glad that Mrs. McKay is my mentor, because she helps me understand a lot of things that I never would have gotten otherwise. It is also fun when we bring in games to play and figure out how to play them and I usually win. Like when we play "Guess-Who", which is a game where you try to guess who the other person's person on the card is, by asking questions about the other person's figure on the card. Mrs. McKay and I love to play games. Mrs. McKay likes to talk about subjects such as the politics that I am active in. Mrs. McKay also likes to talk about the way things work. Mrs. McKay is very cheerful. The best thing about going to Mrs. McKay's office is that we get to play a lot and have so much fun.

Noah S.B. Williams, Age 8
West Hartford, CT

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I would like to thank my mentor, Dr. Joe Melcher, who has provided me with insight, support, and guidance in our profession of Audiology. Your time and efforts are truly appreciated. Thanks for all you've done and also just for who you are!

Ahmad Alexander
Minden, LA

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When I was 10 yrs old, I played with the neighboring girls who lived next door to a lone guitarist just outside Pittsburgh, PA. During the summer months, with his basement door open, I would pause on a knee-high cement wall and listen to this 'new to the ear sound applification'. His guitar sound inspired me to become a musician and, later, joined the school band. Now, I have become a successfull drummer in Europe with the band Liquid Horizon. I have honored my mentor 33 years later with a short 'Thank You' message on our new CD "REVOLUTIONS" to be released in 2007. (How little did my mentor know that I kept him in my heart all those years and now found the proper way to honor his unknowing music contribution to another individual!)

Chuck West
Mannheim, Germany

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Dear Ms.Eddie,thank you for spending time with me. I really appreciate it and I want to thank you for always helping me on my homework and caring about me every time. I really think you're an awesome mentor I could ever have.

Keyana R.
Marietta, GA

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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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That this tribute is in English I have her to thank for. That I dare post it is again thanks to her. She is more than a teacher of English. She demystified 'Brutishness', and at the same time showed us that English opens the whole world. She introduced us -her students- to Anglo-Saxon culture with such passion that we could not but feel totally immersed in it. She allowed us to make mistakes, challenged us to reach our limits and find out that there was no such thing. She trusted me to do well, and I did. I owe her a debt of gratitude, and I shall repay it by taking a leaf out of her book.

Robert Maerlandt
Gent, OV
Belgium

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My mentor is my mother. I remember when we relocated to Brooklyn, NY. I did not want to leave my brother and sister and father. But my mom assured me, we will make it. We both worked at the phone company, and we were staying with total strangers until we could afford to get a place of our own. Thank you Lord, my mother got mugged in the apartment elevator, but she kept on working. I then decided to go in the army, my mom was like a drill sergeant, so I would not have any problems following diretions. During basic training, I would call collect every chance I had, crying to come home. She once again reassured me to hang in there. Thank you mamma for accpeting all my collect calls. I retired with 21 blessed years and 8 tedious years as a special educator...even though she is miles away I still call her not collect...my mom is a friend and my mentor. I am truly blessed of my mamma.

Pauline Pitts
San Antonio, TX

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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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Nancy,

Thank you for your leadership and for your guidance. You have been and always will be an inspiration to me, and I will never forget the lessons in life and business that I have learned from you, as an example. I will always treasure that.

Sincerely,

Edith

Edith Nowak
New Providence, NJ

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