My New Old Mentor

/in /by

Monica Brisbon_214My conversations with Dr. Wider began at the EBS during the summer of 2016. I met her when I signed up for ACTE. She was so enthusiastic about the organization, and helped me understand the value of being a part of SCACTE and my division. I attended the reception during the EBS and had the opportunity to network with many other members of SCACTE. This experience gave me the opportunity to hear the benefits of SCACTE.

Listening to Dr. Wider inspired me, and I began to do my own research about the organization I had recently joined. I went on the website and began to seek out opportunities. Dr. Wider and I stayed in touch, and she became a valuable resource for advice regarding leadership paths and my participation within SCACTE.

I was fortunate to have Dr. Wider as my mentor even before the ACTE Fellowship program made it official. We discussed several months ago the endless opportunities and rich experiences that could be gained by obtaining ACTE membership. She offered me advice and enthusiastic support, and I ran with it. I believe that all things are possible, and if there is an opportunity to be had that will help me become a better leader, educator, and overall person, I am all in.

I was honored when I received the email informing me I was selected to participate in the ACTE Fellowship Program, and the sense of honor has not diminished since. Dr. Wider was ecstatic to hear I was selected, and we began discussing the role of leadership and my representation of the Region II Division.

We discussed how leadership is an incredibly important role and it takes a person with an open heart and open mind to be a successful leader. Dr. Wider shared her experience as a past fellow and encouraged me to make the best of my fellowship experience. We reviewed the program of work, she helped me with ideas for blogs, and then invited me to our SCACTE state board meeting. I am honored to have Dr. Wider as my mentor and I am looking forward to working with her throughout this process and beyond.

 

Monica Brisbon
Region II
Carolina Forest High School
Myrtle Beach, SC