Each year during Inspire 2008, College Mentors for Kids recognizing the outstanding efforts of college student participants with three special awards for the Mentor, Chapter Leader and Chapter of the Year. 

Participation, at any level, in College Mentors for Kids requires a significant time commitment, ranging from two hours per week for mentors and up to 20 hours per week for chapter leaders.

These awards are presented to two individuals and one chapter for going above and beyond their roles to inspire, educate, and connect children to higher education opportunities. 

Sara Dalke, a first year mentor at Indiana University, received the Mentor of the Year award. Even though they’ve known each other a little less than a year, Sara can tell you anything about her little buddy, Rayne. Sara’s activity leader describes her by saying, “Sara has been a great asset to the program, and I don't think Rayne or the IU Chapter of College Mentors for Kids could have found a better mentor.” 

The Chapter Leader of the Year award was presented to Shelia Seedhouse, president of the Butler University Chapter. In the past four years, Shelia has moved from mentor to chapter president. Joe Bowman, chapter vice president, says, “Her enthusiasm for this organization is contagious. All of the mentors take their roles very seriously. She models everything a great mentor and chapter leader should be in her everyday life, which makes her the perfect leader.” 

The Purdue University Chapter was recognized as the Chapter of the Year for its outstanding commitment to the culture of mentoring. Purdue University now hosts the largest chapter of College Mentors for Kids, serving 100 children. The Chapter has been recognized by the President of Purdue University and is one of the most active student organizations on campus.   

“We received over 30 nominations from college student volunteers. With so many outstanding student leaders, mentors, and chapters, making a decision on the award winners was a difficult one,” said Emily Reid, associate program director. “Sara, Sheila, and the Purdue Chapter embody the culture of mentoring that is present within College Mentors for Kids and represent well all of our outstanding college student volunteers.”

College Mentors would like to congratulate and thank Sara, Shelia and the Purdue Chapter for their hard work and dedication to College Mentors for Kids.