University Minority Mentor Program
What is the University Minority Mentor Program?
The University Minority Mentor Program (UMMP) was initiated in the fall of 1986 to address the retention of African-American students at the University of Florida. The program was initially piloted in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and during its second year it was expanded to all seventeen (17) University colleges and schools. Later the program broadened its goal to serve both African-American and Hispanic Students. This year, we are excited to announce that UMMP will once again increase the number of students it serves by extending an invitation of participation to all first generation minority college students.
UMMP is a component of the Dean of Students Office, whose stated mission is "to engage students and cultivate opportunities for personal and academic achievement by offering quality services and educational opportunities, advocating on behalf of students, and providing leadership that encourages the university community to celebrate diversity, cultivate collaborative relationships, and develop a sense of belonging by planning and implementing creative and innovative programs and services."
UMMP is designed to support students in their transition to the University of Florida and to offer guidance as students begin to define their goals and strive for academic success. This objective is achieved through active participation in one-on-one interactions between mentors and mentees, small group meetings with mentoring clusters, and attendance at cultural events. Most students, faculty, and staff who have participated in this program agree this kind of interaction is positive and productive, and assists greatly in making this large university more personal for students, especially minority students.
Eligibility
The following students are eligible to apply
- First-year students
- Minority students
- First-generation college students
*Preference will be given to first-generation students, but other first-year and minority students may apply.