alumni Mentor sessions
The purpose behind being an Alumni Mentor: to give back to current students by sharing stories, building trust and developing a relationship.
The Alumni Engagement Office at Buffalo State has partnered with Compeer to provide the best program for our alumni mentors and students. Our program of alumni mentors consists of three ways to participate: one-to-one mentorship, group mentorship mixers, and our host family program.
One-to-one mentorship: Creating personalized connections between an alumni mentor and a student for individual support.
Group mentorship mixers: Social gatherings where students and alumni meet in a casual group setting to foster connections.
Host family program: Connect with students by sharing meals and offering guidance in a welcoming community atmosphere by fostering meaning relationships.
Why become a Mentor
- Pay it forward: Share the knowledge and wisdom you've gained since graduating from Buffalo State. Your advice could be the key in helping students prepare for their future.
- Build meaningful connections: Form lasting relationships with students who share your passion for Buffalo State and increase your professional network by meeting other alumni mentors.
- Shape the future with your positive impact: With your guidance, you'll help students gain confidence, develop essential skills and prepare for the opportunities and challenges that could lie ahead.
Benefits of becoming a mentor
- Personal Fulfillment: Make a meaningful impact by supporting students during critical stages.
- Leadership Development: Enhance your leadership skills while mentoring others.
- Networking: Build relationships with mentees, mentors, and the alumni community.
- Career Growth: Strengthen your resume with mentorship experience.
- Connection to Alma Mater: Stay engaged and contribute to Buffalo State University's future.
How it works
Becoming a mentor is not just an opportunity to give back - it's a chance to make an impact on a current Buffalo State student. Our Alumni Mentorship Program offers personalized matches, flexible commitment, and opportunities to bring you back to campus to engage with your mentee.
Buffalo State and Compeer will walk you through every step of the process. They will be there to support you to answer any questions and offer the sense of community we want to offer to our students.
If you are interested in participating in this Alumni Mentorship Program, please fill out the "Alumni Mentorship Interest Form" below, or contact Katelyn Birckhouse, director of alumni engagement at brickhkm@buffalostate.edu for specific questions. More information about the program is below.
ALumni Mentor Events
The Alumni Engagement Office and Compeer host muliple events throughout the year to encourage engagement between alumni and students. Our upcoming fall events are listed below.
"An Evening with Lazarus Lynch, '16" - Anne Frank Project Alumni Lecture
Tuesday, September 24, 2024 | 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Jacqueline Vito LoRusso Alumni & Visitor Center
$10 per person
Join alumni and students as alumnus Lazarus Lynch, ‘16, presents on the theme “Home” as the Anne Frank Project’s featured speaker in collaboration with the Buffalo State Talks Speaker Series.
About our speaker: Lazarus Lynch (he/him) is the author of the Amazon Editor's Pick cookbook Son of a Southern Chef: Cook with Soul. He was the first Black and queer chef to attend and cook for the Met Gala in 2021. Lazarus’ natural ability to make people feel valued, seen, and heard led him to become a social worker and psychotherapist. Today, Lazarus supports individuals and families weekly with the tools to improve their mental health and relationships.
Students, alumni, family, and community members are welcome to join us! Registration fees go to support student travel for AFP's Rwanda trip.
Alumni Mentorship Mixer | Fall 2024
Thursday, October 24, 2024 | 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Bengal SUccess Center | Bengal Hall 118
Free to attend!
Join us for an exciting opportunity to network and connect with accomplished alumni eager to share their experiences and support your journey at Buffalo State!
Come to our Alumni & Student Mentorship Mixer to learn more about Buffalo State's Alumni Mentorship Program. This event is designed to bring together students and alumni who are interested in becoming mentees and mentors.
Mentorship can enhance your academic, personal, and professional development by forging valuable connections who can support you throughout your journey at Buffalo State University and beyond. Whether you're seeking connection on-campus, navigating challenges, or simply looking for mentorship and support, this event is your gateway to a network of caring and experienced alumni mentors.