UWF takes high school students ‘Beyond School Walls’ with Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program

The two-year program aims to equip students with the confidence and skills to thrive in post-secondary education, vocational and workforce settings by pairing them with volunteer UWF faculty and staff mentors. During the school year, the students will visit UWF's Pensacola campus monthly for workshops and one-on-one sessions with their mentors, who will provide guidance on building communication skills, applying for college and scholarships, crafting resumes, preparing for interviews, and exploring trade and career opportunities. The program has shown to have a profound impact on students, often resulting in improved grades, boosted self-esteem and a clearer vision for their futures.

"At UWF, we are always looking for new ways to support our community, shape tomorrow's leaders, create connections and make a difference in the world," said UWF President Martha D. Saunders. "Through Beyond School Walls and the transformative power of mentorship, our faculty and staff share their exceptional talents with young people, showing them pathways to future success and inspiring ambitious dreams."

UWF is one of only five institutions in Florida's more than 100 public and private colleges and universities with a Beyond School Walls BBBS mentoring program.

Amber Hudson, academic support coordinator for tutoring and learning resources at UWF and new Big Sister, said she is looking forward to helping her Little Sister realize the possibilities that await after high school. "When I was 14, I lived in Currie House Youth Shelter and didn't have someone I could turn to for advice and guidance about my future. To be that person for my Little Sister and help her go after her dreams is an amazing opportunity."

Little Brother Jashaun said he heard about Beyond School Walls last year and since going to college is a dream of his, he was excited to get selected for the program at UWF. "My teacher Ms. Coleman said I would learn about a lot of opportunities through this program, so I came dressed to impress today. We went on a tour of campus and I'm looking forward to learning more about what the college experience will be like."

BBBSNWFL matches students with workplace partners through its Beyond School Walls program in Escambia and Okaloosa counties. For 34 years, the organization has been the area's leader in one-to-one youth service, providing caring adult mentors to children ages 5-18 and beyond.

"We are so grateful for this incredible partnership with UWF, and we know that the staff and faculty will provide our Littles with invaluable insights into college, career, and trade opportunities," said Paula Shell, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida. "We are so excited to see this partnership become a reality and look forward to the impact it will have on these student's futures."

For more information about UWF, visit uwf.edu. For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, visit bbbsnwfl.org.