Join us in celebrating the transformative power of mentoring by honoring five mentoring organizations that have embodied the principles of building positive relationships and strengthening communities across Virginia. By celebrating these programs, we recognize that mentors and program staff have a positive impact on our youth and the community.
Mark your calendar to celebrate with us on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at The Branch Museum Architecture and Design located at 2501 Monument Avenue in Richmond, VA 23220. The event starts at 5:30 pm and ends at 7:30 pm.
We are aiming to raise $15,000 and we would be thrilled and grateful if you could help us reach it. By coming on board as one of our event sponsors or purchasing a ticket you will be able to help us continue to provide high-quality mentoring training to programs and organizations at low cost.
2024 Champions of Mentoring Awardees:
- Virginia Hispanic Foundation
- City of Danville (Violence Prevention - Project Imagine)
- Partnership for the Future
- Omicron Alpha Lambda, Fredericksburg Chapter, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.
- Space of Her Own (SOHO)
Event Guest Speaker:
Dr. Marcus J. Newsome is an award-winning educational leader who has served as an advisor to governors, members of Congress, and business leaders throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. He is the President of the National Bible College and Seminary in Fort Washington, Maryland, a senior advisor for Benchmark Education, and a professional developer specializing in Artificial Intelligence in Education. Newsome is the author of two recent books, “Breakthrough Leadership” and “Transcend.” He previously created and led the Virginia Superintendents Leadership Academy, providing professional development, mentoring, and training for school superintendents.
Newsome is renowned for his innovative leadership and ability to drive change. He began his career as an art and mathematics teacher in the District of Columbia Public Schools. His journey led him to roles as a principal, director, executive director, and superintendent in three different districts. As superintendent of Newport News Public Schools, all high schools were named among the ‘Best High Schools in America’ by Newsweek Magazine. As superintendent of Chesterfield County Public Schools, the district was honored as a national leader in digital education at a White House ceremony. His contributions are featured in the award-winning documentary, “Petersburg Rising,” which has received six international film festival awards.
Newsome has also held academic positions as an associate professor at Harvard University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Virginia State University. He co-founded Mega Mentors; an organization recognized by the Obama Administration for its impactful work. Newsome’s awards include the FBI Community Service Award, the NAACP Living Legends Award, and the Regional Superintendent of the Year. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a dedicated volunteer and advocate, serving as an education advisor for the Abulkoi Foundation, which supports students in South Sudan, Africa. He is an ordained minister, devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
Note to sponsors and donors: You can also send checks payable to MENTOR Virginia--mail to 2101 Maywill St, Richmond, Virginia 23230.
The Branch Museum Architecture and Design has free parking available in the First Baptist Church lot adjacent to the museum. There are entrances to the parking lot from Park Avenue and Robinson Street. The Branch is located at 2501 Monument Avenue, in Richmond's historic Fan District, at the intersection of Monument and Davis Avenues. Below are the directions to the event location:
From I-95 North or I-64 West, take exit 78 toward Boulevard. Turn left from the ramp onto Hermitage Rd. Make first right onto Robin Hood Rd. and next left onto VA-161/N. Boulevard. Proceed one mile and turn left onto Broad Street, then turn right at the third light onto Davis Ave. Go two blocks, and The Branch is on Monument Avenue opposite the next intersection.
From I-95 South or I-64 East, take exit 78 and turn right onto Boulevard. Proceed one mile and turn left onto Broad Street, then turn right at the third light onto Davis Ave. Go two blocks, and The Branch is on Monument Avenue opposite the next intersection.
Champions of Mentoring is sponsored by Altria, Bryan Carr, MENTOR Virginia's Advisory Board, and CarMax.