Hooper shares value of mentoring as campus advisors honored during Advising All-Stars Luncheon
Student advisors who display their care for Alcorn State University's students were honored for their quality service to the university.
Twenty-one student advisors were named advising all-star recipients during Alcorn's Advising All-Stars Luncheon Tuesday, Aug. 13 in the Dr. Clinton Bristow Dining Facility Gold Room. Kim Hooper, who earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Alcorn in 2000, was the speaker.
Hooper, the senior manager of Asset Protection with Walmart Stores, Inc. in Columbus, Ohio, applauded the faculty and staff for their dedication to being advisors and mentors.
"I challenge all of you to take it to an even higher level," said Hooper. "An advisor tells students what is required of them to graduate. A mentor focuses on human relationships and also serves as a guide, tutor, and coach. Mentors have a vested interest in the person they are interacting with. So it is important to be both an advisor and a mentor."
Being able to nurture students, according to Hooper, is also a good quality for a mentor to have.
"You believe in not only what the student is doing now, but also what they can do in the future. A mentor guides students where they should go educationally and professionally. Mentors nurture their students. In doing so, you may have to be their mother, father, or grandparent."
Hooper challenged the all-stars to reclaim their title next year as well as encourage others to step up and gain recognition for their mentorship.
"I challenge you to sharpen and motivate your colleagues to elevate to your level of success. I hope to see the number of all-star advisors double next year."
Dr. Ira Sewell, an associate professor at Alcorn's School of Nursing, appreciates being one of the recipients. She's thankful to be in a position to uplift students.
"It feels awesome to know that I can be a mentor and an inspiration to students," said Sewell. "It feels good to help students move further in their studies at Alcorn.
Greg Trotnic, Army ROTC recruiter for the Department of Military Science, was humbled by his selection as a star advisor.
"It's always great to be recognized by my colleagues for doing a good job," said Trotnic. "I appreciate being able to provide guidance to our students."
Dr. John Igwebuike, interim provost and executive vice president for the Office of Academic Affairs, credited the all-stars for contribution to student excellence.
"Our university is great because of your mentorship, advisement, and ability to mold our students for success," said Igwebuike.
President Felecia M. Nave applauded the all-stars for their diligence and commitment to instilling excellence into Alcorn's students.
"Congratulations on the exceptional job that you all are doing with our students," said Nave. "This is a collective effort, and we appreciate you for putting in all of the extra hours to help our students.
