The School of Information Technology (IT) will recognize participants in the IT Professional Mentorship Program at the annual Celebrate IT reception when IT students and their families will come together with faculty, staff, and friends of the School of Information Technology to celebrate the achievements of the past year on April 22 at 5 p.m. in the Hancock Stadium Club.

The IT Professional Mentorship Program partners the School of Information Technology and successful IT professionals to help prepare IT students to launch their professional career after graduation. Seventy-five IT students and 42 professional mentors participated in the 2015–2016 term.

The program matches IT students with successful IT professionals for the duration of the academic year to provide insights into the professional world after graduation. Mentors and mentees enjoy a variety of activities, including job shadowing, facility tours, and professional development.

In its fourth year, the IT Professional Mentorship Program has benefited both student mentees and professional mentors. Mentees have commented that the experience enhances their academic experience by helping them to “focus on study areas that may be helpful for my future career development.” Mentors have commented that the experience has provided them an opportunity for growth also. One mentor commented, “I feel more confident in myself because I helped someone else feel confident.”

The IT Professional Mentorship Program is a prime example of the power of collaboration among the School of Information Technology, our alumni, and our industry partners.