On Friday, April 19, SUNY Oswego's Focus Forward mentoring program celebrated its annual recognition dinner. Families of mentees from local public schools, as well as college mentors, were invited to partake in the dinner.

SUNY Oswego mentors and their respective mentees participating in the program were recognized for their commitment to Focus Forward.

The Focus Forward program is an experiential learning opportunity that pairs SUNY Oswego students as mentors with middle and high school youth in the community. Focus Forward has been operating since 2011 with the mission of fostering safe and inclusive spaces for students as well as increasing the graduation rate.

Focus Forward is one of many service learning opportunities within EXCEL: Experiential Courses and Engaged Learning that allows students to gain hands-on experience while earning their degree. Participants in the program earn upper-division credit and develop practical skills for up to eight semesters, all while serving their community.


"It was a proud moment listening to the Focus Forward mentors talk about their experiences in front of their peers," said Mallory Bower, interim director of EXCEL. "They were able to showcase all of the skills they gained and how they connect to their personal and professional goals. This is what experiential learning is all about -- learning by doing, reflecting on the experience, and sharing how it has changed them for the better."

Focus Forward strives to create a positive impact on the community of Oswego by allowing mentors to express the importance of being effective global citizens. Mentors aid students with both academic and social support.

One current mentor, Tessa McCain, noted: “If we impact these students in a positive way, then they can go forward and create more positive change in the community. I hope I impacted them in the education system to want to go forward and continue their education.”

Focus Forward is currently accepting applications for mentors for the fall semester. If you are interested in earning one upper-division credit and building meaningful connections, you can do so by visiting the Focus Forward page and clicking the “Apply to be a Mentor” link.

Inquiries also can be sent to Kevin O’Connor, Focus Forward coordinator, at focusforward@oswego.edu, or student can visit their offices in The Compass within Marano Campus Center.

-- Submitted by Focus Forward