"At 50 years old, I am compelled to acquire training in library science by the great need I see in the urban community for positive African- American male role models."

"I believe the [EDI] mentorship program can only enhance my educational experience, and am excited about the opportunity to explore the library culture."

"When I receive my degree, I would like to take on the challenge of managing a library. This would allow me to serve as an advocate and positive role model for other Hispanics."

Goals of current EDI students:

"When I earn my MLS I will use this new knowledge to empower people. I hope this kind of empowerment will lead to more change, both social and informational."

 

 

"I want to reach out to new immigrants and create awareness among them about the
wonderful services that are found in libraries that could aid them in their adjustment to their new culture."

"My goal is to provide the best service to those in need. I also want to use my learning experience with EDI to further prepare me for any future leadership role in my profession."

" I want to make the library integral to student success."

 

Current EDI Student Demographics:

5 Hispanic students

6 Asian American students

1 African-American student

1 American Indian student

EDI students include:

  • 1 doctoral (Ph.D.) award known as the EDI Fellow. The EDI Fellow will be a full-time student in the ESU SLIM's Ph.D program in Kansas and serve as the EDI program manager for the project.
  • 12 master of library science (MLS) awards known as EDI Scholars. The EDI scholars are staff of partner libraries or sponsored by affiliate libraries and are part of ESU SLIM's MLS program, which includes attending weekend intensive classes in Kansas, Colorado and Oregon.
  • 4 bachelor of science awards known as EDI Interns. The EDI interns are students working towards their undegraduate degree with a focus on Information Resources Studies (IRS) courses.

Responsibilities of Students

  1. Participate in new student/mentor orientation and subsequent EDI student programs.
  2. Take the initiative in sustaining the relationship by scheduling appointments to have face to face or virtual conferences with your mentor. Let the mentor know ahead when you will be inaccessible.
  3. Get acquainted with the mentor and educate her on your needs and how best she can be of help.
  4. Ensure that you understand the expectations and ground rules for the mentoring relationship
  5. Be open to learning new things and different perspectives. Also, be responsive to suggestions and constructive criticism.
  6. Do initial research about any problem you are experiencing and communicate your views clearly and honestly to the mentor. It is alright to admit anxiety or ignorance, but it is not alright to deliberately lie or mislead others about your situation.
  7. Work hard in your academic and professional roles. Follow through on the mentor's suggestions and provide feedback in a timely manner.
  8. Bring any concerns to the attention of the mentor before they turn to crises.
  9. Participate in data collection for EDI program evaluation.
  10. Ensure that you abide by the EDI award conditions (Student's Agreement Form)

Last Updated December 12, 2007