Expanding Access to Leadership Mentorship: Reimagining Preparation at an Urban Hispanic and Minority-Serving Institution

• In Event: Mentoring Leaders of Color: Reimagining Preparation, Support, and Leadership Pathways

Abstract

This study explores a non-traditional mentorship initiative supporting aspiring K12 school leaders in an educational leadership master’s program at an urban Hispanic and Minority-Serving Institution in the U.S. Traditional educational leadership mentorship models are often limited to faculty advising and site-based practicum internship placements, which may fail to address the needs of historically marginalized students. This qualitative study explores how a non-traditional mentorship model can foster leadership identity, professional belonging, and early retention among aspiring leaders of color. Grounded in equity-based leadership development, findings highlight the potential of inclusive mentorship to transform preparation practices. This research contributes to equity-centered innovations in leadership development and reimagines mentorship as a pathway for diversifying and strengthening the future of educational leadership.

Author

• Lizette Navarrete-Burks, University of Northern Colorado