Lincoln University Launches Alumni Mentorship Initiative to Enhance Student Success

Lincoln aims to boost career readiness and support students' unique journeys by connecting first-year students with alumni mentors.

Lincoln University of Missouri is proud to announce the establishment of a new alumni mentorship initiative aimed at connecting current students with alumni mentors. This program, facilitated in partnership with Mentor Collective, seeks to enhance career readiness and support the professional development of Lincoln’s students.

Lincoln University’s residential student population, predominantly African American and students of color, has expressed a strong desire for mentors who can relate to their unique experiences and challenges. Additionally, many alumni have reached out, eager to support current Blue Tigers as they navigate their educational journeys and prepare for successful careers after graduation. Lincoln University leadership recognizes this as an opportunity to engage alumni in making a meaningful impact on the lives of future generations of Lincolnites.

“It’s important for us to provide our students with connections that align with their unique experiences and goals," said Lincoln University President Dr. John Moseley. "Our hope for each of our students is that they will walk their own path but being able to identify someone they can emulate along their journey is crucial." 

The initiative will invite all incoming first-year students to be paired with an identity-aligned alumni mentor, fostering connections that are vital for enhancing career readiness. This program will not only enable alumni from across the country to stay engaged with Lincoln University but will also showcase their career paths, offering insights into potential post-graduation opportunities.

"I mentor because I believe in the potential within each student to transform their communities, industries and futures," said Lauren Maupins, Alumni Council member and 1989 Lincoln graduate. "All it takes is for one person to believe in our youth to inspire them — I want to be that person. At Lincoln University, with IBM, and in East St. Louis, I see the same spark — a drive to excel and break barriers. Whether it's inspiring young Black girls in technology, guiding interns, supporting P-TECH students or helping debutantes, mentoring is about lighting a path forward. I want young Black girls to look at my journey and see themselves, to always strive for greatness and to never accept defeat. Every mentee I encounter is a reminder of our collective ability to create lasting impact and cultivate the next generation of leaders who will shape a more inclusive and innovative world."

The partnership with Mentor Collective will also grant university administrators greater data visibility, allowing for a better understanding of the factors driving recent increases in first-year retention rates. Key outcomes for students include:

• Connecting freshmen with relevant, identity-aligned alumni mentors to support their transition into university life.
• Preparing well-trained and informed participants to ensure a successful mentorship experience.
• Assessing and fostering student success factors at key points throughout the student experience, including:
  • Career decision self-efficacy
  • Awareness and use of career services
  • Professional skills development
  • Academic help-seeking
  • Strength of the mentoring relationship
  • Participants’ insights on the mentorship program

For more information about Mentor Collective and the Alumni Mentorship Initiative, please visit www.mentorcollective.org.