Mentors, mentees recognized for positive influence

While Baldwin High School’s gymnasium is widely known as home to successful basketball programs, on June 4 it was home to another BHS staple: its mentoring program. The school hosted its 13th annual Mentoring Recognition Dinner where teachers and students were honored for their hard work and participation over the last school year.

When Pat Banhazl, school-to-career coordinator at BHS, launched the mentoring program in 2001, there were five teachers and five students. Now, the program boasts more than 70 educators and 150 students. Each of the teachers involved volunteer their time to mentor a student to discuss issues, success and anything else that comes to mind.

Helen Kanellopoulos, who coordinates the program with Banhazl, thanked the couple hundred people in attendance for making the program what it is today, and applauded the teachers who serve as role models everyday. “[Students] know they have a friend, guiding light and advocate,” Kanellopoulos said of the mentors, “who will provide them with encouragement to make sure that their future plans are possible.”

First-year mentor Marisa Boeckeler, an English teacher, said she loved her initial exposure to mentoring. One of her students, senior Bukie Beharovic, asked Boeckeler if she would be her mentor and she quickly said yes. Boeckeler, like many teachers during the night, spoke of the positive impact their mentor-mentee relationship had on her.

“You have made me a better teacher because you’ve shown me how important it is to see the world through your eyes,” Boeckeler said of Beharovic. “I wish only the best for you now and always because you truly deserve it.”

When it was Beharovic’s turn to speak, she said her mentor has shown her what it takes to become a strong, independent woman. “I appreciate all that you’ve done for me this year,” Beharovic said. “Without you, I wouldn’t be standing here today ready to graduate.”

English teacher Nia Thompson has six mentees this school year, four who are seniors. Jelissa Samuel, Zhane Wharten, Mylz Wilson and Shayna Haines each spoke of the positive influence Thompson has had on their lives.