iMentor Expands Support for First-Generation Students as New School Year Begins

iMentor Expands Support for First-Generation Students

As a new academic year kicks off, iMentor, a nationally recognized mentoring program, is intensifying its mission to assist first-generation college students. With over 25 years of experience, iMentor is committed to breaking educational barriers faced by students from underprivileged backgrounds. In light of diminished federal and state funding for public education and diversity initiatives, the organization is stepping up its efforts to create opportunities and foster a sense of belonging among this demographic.

Building Strategic Partnerships

To increase its reach and impact, iMentor is forming new partnerships with various educational institutions and mentoring organizations, including the City University of New York (CUNY) and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Additionally, it welcomes its first independent school, Cathedral High School in Boston, into its network. By collaborating with these and other entities, iMentor is ensuring that more students have access to vital mentoring and support resources.

"This is a critical moment for students and for our country," says Dr. Heather D. Wathington, CEO of iMentor. "With the shrinking of student support systems, mentoring remains one of the best ways to ensure that students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Our partnerships are designed to extend our reach and demonstrate that mentorship transcends a singular program—it's a movement towards equity."

Focus on Career Development

A significant aspect of this expansion is an initiative launched in collaboration with CUNY in the fall of 2024, which aims to provide career development mentorship to students. This program fosters meaningful relationships between mentors and mentees, enhancing students' preparation for careers in fields like finance, accounting, and technology. At CUNY's various colleges, including York, Baruch, and Lehman, special emphasis is placed on providing mentorship tailored to the unique challenges faced by students from different backgrounds.

At LaGuardia Community College, iMentor also aids students transitioning from workforce certifications to tech-related degree programs, thus creating pathways for greater opportunities in the job market.

Dr. Jonathan Quash, Executive Director of the CUNY Black Male Initiative, emphasizes the importance of this mentorship by stating that, "In just one semester, iMentor has shown to be a key partner in connecting students to the guidance they need to thrive in competitive job fields."

Community Engagement and Impact

Research illustrates that effective mentorship can dramatically influence social mobility, lifting not only individual students but entire communities. For instance, two-thirds of iMentor students from its 2023 cohort have continued into their third semester of college at rates exceeding their peers. iMentor's efforts extend beyond high school, engaging with community organizations to build lasting support systems that persist through critical transitional periods in students' lives.

The organization aims to serve approximately 9,000 students across ten states during the 2025-26 academic year via direct services and community partnerships. Its longstanding collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters demonstrates the effectiveness of combined efforts to address opportunity gaps and foster meaningful networks.

Call to Action for Collaboration

Established in 1999, iMentor has impacted over 45,000 students so far and is active in three primary regions—New York City, Chicago, and Baltimore. As the education landscape evolves, iMentor calls on colleges, employers, and nonprofit organizations to join its coalition and invest in first-generation students. By utilizing its proven mentoring model and solid platform, partners can gain access to effective tools for mentor training and program execution.

For more information regarding partnership opportunities, interested entities can reach out to Nariman Heikal, Managing Director of Partnerships and Business Development at [email protected]. Additionally, following iMentor's social media channels on LinkedIn and Instagram offers updates on their programs and initiatives.

Conclusion

iMentor exemplifies a powerful force for change in education, equipping first-generation college students with the resources they need to succeed. Through mentorship, community collaboration, and strategic partnerships, the organization is on a transformative journey to create a more equitable future for all students. As the new school year unfolds, the commitment to uplift and support those who seek to overcome barriers remains paramount.