Images of Ideal Mentors: Perspectives of African American Male Students in the Men Achieving Leadership Excellence Program

• In Event: 33.079 - Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: 33.079-14 - Men of Color Engaging Communities: Family, Friends, and Faculty

Abstract

The authors describe the views of African American male undergraduate ideologies about their concept of an ideal mentor. This research provides a visual voice to characteristics this population searches for in a mentor to help them achieve academic success while preparing for a career in the global marketplace. This research explored the use of visual imagery, as well as written and spoken words, as an innovative and engaging strategy for garnering an understanding of what characteristics and personality traits African American male undergraduates look for in their ideal mentor. The participatory visual research method, though creative and fun, allowed the participants to display a deeper conceptualization of the issue at hand, while showcasing their creativity and critical thinking skills.

Authors

• Terence LaMar Finley, Prairie View A&M University

• David Hughes, Prairie View A&M University

• Sterling Mark, Prairie View A&M University

• Ke'Ron Johnson, Prairie View A&M University

• Michael L. McFrazier, Prairie View A&M University

• Lucian Yates,III, Prairie View A&M University

• Pamela Renee Finley, LeadershipHBCU

• Alexus Hall, Prairie View A&M University

• Na'Shon Zhane Edwards, Prairie View A&M University