Mentorship, scholarship, fellowship and advocacy
Mount Royal University and the Calgary Black Chambers (CBC) are pleased to announce the signing of a three-year partnership focused on mentorship.The signing happened at the celebration of Black Excellence on campus during Inclusion Week.
The formal signing of this partnership solidifies the mutual support demonstrated over a number of years.
Mount Royal faculty members have been awarded the CBC’s Educator of the Year Award while students have benefitted from scholarships awarded by the CBC. Many of the Chambers’ active members have ties to the MRU community as faculty, alumni, Honorary Degree recipients and board members.
As part of this new partnership, MRU Career Services will invest $7,000 in year one. CBC will refer its industry and community professionals to Career Service's Black Mentorship Program, where they will be matched with students to diversify the mentorship network and create meaningful professional connections.
"We recognize that Black students in higher education face distinct challenges, and we are fully committed to providing them with the resources, tools, and guidance needed to succeed both academically and professionally,” says Vance Koberstein, Partner Engagement Manager with Career Services. “By connecting the Calgary Black Chambers directly with MRU’s Black Mentorship Program, we are creating valuable opportunities to match students with mentors from diverse backgrounds.”
The first year of the program will serve as a pilot phase, during which the CBC and MRU will work together to shape the mentorship experience, incorporating elements such as experiential and work-integrated learning. Years two and three will build on this foundation, expanding the program’s impact and opportunities.
Upon completion of the mentorship program, MRU will encourage third and fourth year students to participate in CBC’s high school mentorship program, offering a full-circle mentorship experience and empowering the next generation of leaders.
Anette Massiah, Director of Mentorships with the Calgary Black Chambers calls this partnership pivotal for their mentorship programs.
“It will expand our ability to support our youth with their educational goals, setting them up for success on their career journey."
Dr. Moussa Magassa, PhD, Associate Vice-President, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion was thrilled to witness the signing of this partnership, noting that the focus on mentorship is important as it is one of the cornerstones of student success.
Together, Career Services and the CBC will engage in advocacy efforts where possible and partner on research and knowledge sharing efforts.
“This partnership aligns with MRU’s mission to enhance student experiences and outcomes through external collaborations that promote professional growth, leadership development, and financial support,” says Dr. Timothy Rahilly, PhD, President and Vice-Chancellor.
“Mount Royal is committed to community engagement as a key institutional priority, recognizing the importance of fostering meaningful connections for our students that drive social impact.”
This partnership represents a commitment to strengthening the Black community through education, professional development, and meaningful mentorship connections.