A week-long summer program is designed for Scholars to meet other Latin@ students and Latin@ faculty and engage in fun, hands-on learning and community service activities. Offered to new and returning Avanzando Scholars, this program helps students get a head start on the academic year with focus on:      Writing & math skills enhancement Latin@ studies Test-taking and study skills Utilizing the library and other campus resources for academic success College survival tips and self-care The University of Missouri-Kansas City Division of Diversity and Inclusion 359 Administrative Center 5115 Oak Street Kansas City, Missouri 64112 SUMMER PROGRAM “Once social change begins, it cannot be reversed. You cannot uneducate the person who has learned to read. You cannot humiliate the person who feels pride. You cannot oppress the people who are not afraid anymore. We have seen the future, and the future is ours.” - Cesar Chavez A partnership program between UMKC Division of Diversity and Inclusion and the Hispanic Development Fund. For more information: Marji Datwyler, Project Director 816-235-6706 or datwylerm@umkc.edu University of Missouri-Kansas City Avanzando Program 5115 Oak Street – AC 218B Kansas City, MO 64112 www.umkc.edu/diversity 2014 UMKC Graduate Dimitri Gamez Doctor of Pharmacy THE PROGRAM MENTORING Avanzando is the result of a partnership established between the UMKC Division of Diversity and Inclusion (DD&I) and the Hispanic Development Fund. Implemented in August 2011, the Avanzando program is designed to support HDF Scholarship recipients in their academic and career pursuits. Goals include: 1) Increasing scholar retention, 2) Improving graduation rates, and 3) Assuring successful transitions of students into graduate school and/or career positions. Program components include academic support, mentoring and enhanced access to campus and community resources. “Every time I have a meeting with Gloria I feel I learned something new. Our meetings are always thought provoking and helpful to me. I know that she will always be forever family to me and my parents." - Patricia Barra, 2014 Graduate Scholar Anna Jobe with her mentor, Cindy Pemberton Scholars are matched with a UMKC faculty or staff member and/or a Latin@ professional or business owner. Mentors listen, provide guidance and support and create access to essential campus and community resources. Mentors also support scholars in maintaining their Latin@ identity and in recognizing their unique strengths and attributes. CONNECTION/RESOURCES Avanzando increases scholar access to resources and development opportunities.  Connection to campus resources that include Career Services, Academic Support/Tutoring and SEARCH (undergraduate research opportunities).  Support with Financial Aid and notice of scholarship opportunities.  Mock interviews for scholars pursuing internships, graduate school, jobs and scholarships.  Connection with community members for career exploration and job shadowing experiences.  Structured and informal social activities for scholars to become acquainted and connected with other Latin@s. “Avanzando has taught me to push myself to [my] fullest potential……and that is what I love so much about the Avanzando program.” - Anonymous 2013-14 Scholar Mentors & mentees receive training and ongoing support. Project Director, Marji Datwyler with Scholar Rafael Alvarez ACADEMIC SUPPORT Every Avanzando scholar receives individual support from the program director and DD&I staff.  One-on-one advising support to assure students stay on track for timely graduation.  Career exploration, goal setting and early preparation for graduate school and/or career placement.  Problem-solving to address personal and academic challenges.  Affirmation of skills, talents, abilities and resiliency of each scholar. “As a mentor, it’s rewarding to see a scholar make connections and succeed. And I learn from her too! She’s so savvy about politics and entertainment and current events.” - Gloria Tibbs Some of our 2014 Avanzando Graduates Matias Bichara, Mariana Ramirez with daughter Natalia, Patricia Barra, Elizabeth Herrera, Anna Jobe, Elvis Vargas, Chris Vargas and Andres Rivera-Hurtado HDF Executive Director and Mentor, Mayra Aguirre with Scholar Chris Estrada