The SUMMIT: A Peer Mentorship Program Empowering Students Nationwide and Beyond
In the fall of 2017, something special took root at the Batten College of Engineering and Technology. As I walked the halls, I noticed a growing need — a gap that was widening among students of African descent. These were bright, ambitious minds brimming with potential but often in search of the right support, guidance, and opportunities. From this realization, The SUMMIT was born: a beacon of hope and empowerment, designed to be more than just another student group, but a community dedicated to uplifting and advancing our Monarchs of African descent.
The SUMMIT stands as a powerful initiative committed to nurturing the academic, cultural, and personal growth of its members. It’s not just a program; it’s a movement — a call to inspire students to rise beyond expectations and embrace their fullest potential. Here, we cultivate role models, foster leadership, and shape future professionals and scholars who are ready to make their mark on the world.
Tom Abbott once said, “It’s not just about being better. It’s about being different. You need to give people a reason to choose your business.” In the same spirit, The SUMMIT sets itself apart by being that essential resource and pillar of support for our students. It goes beyond academics, diving into real-life issues like technical skills, career choices, and even navigating the complex ethical dilemmas that come with growth and success.
We are guided by a powerful ethos, echoing the timeless wisdom of John Wesley: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” This is the heart of The SUMMIT — an unwavering commitment to do good, to lift others, and to leave a lasting impact on every life we touch.
Now, as we stand at the crossroads of possibility, we invite you to join us in this journey. Whether through mentorship, collaboration, or sponsorship, your support can help us fuel the dreams of these exceptional students and ignite a wave of positive change that will ripple far beyond the campus. Together, we can help shape the leaders of tomorrow — leaders who are not just better, but different in the best way possible.
Our Story
The SUMMIT was born out of a clear need to succeed and a deep commitment to be a brother’s keeper. During my Ph.D. journey, I realized my superpower was bringing people together and creating pathways for success. I saw students struggling, lacking the guidance and sense of belonging they needed to thrive. Then, after orientation, a few students showed up at my office, not just for advice but seeking mentorship and community. That moment sparked something greater.
From those early conversations, The SUMMIT was created — a movement that goes beyond the standard support systems, providing a unique space for personal growth, holistic success, and the power of shared purpose. It’s not just about academic help; it’s about lifting each other up, building leaders, and creating a legacy of excellence.
This is Our STORY — a journey of recognizing a need, harnessing our collective strength, and building a powerful support system. And it’s only the beginning.
Program Goals
The Summit program is based on fundamental values and goals, including:
- To provide mentoring to African and African American Students in the STEM-H field and promoting Monarch Citizenship values through encouraging Responsibility, Engagement and Pride among the students
- To promote academic success through exposing students to the diverse spectrum of resources available on campus and in their fields of study
- To create opportunities for students to engage in conversations with peers and the faculty, about academic success and professionalism, the field of endeavor, and insights gained from the mentorship experiences.
- To provide students a window through which to view academic and professional responsibilities in the real world
