Chapter 12: Mentored in Career Development

The words of advice referenced above were spoken by Fran as I prepared for my first academic appointment. We were having lunch, and she was giving me higher education teaching nuggets and displaying “proud mama” moments as she shared in my excitement on landing my first academic appointment. I was feeling blessed, peaceful, and confident in my new role. I have been blessed with Fran Kochan as my mentor. She is one of the wisest women that I know. From the moment we met, she always had my best interests at heart. Mentorship can be life-changing. Fran was the most instrumental mentor in helping me to build my career in the academy. Without her mentoring, I would not be where I am today. I found it humbling to have her to look up to and to share goals with. She helped guide me in my decisions, and we developed a mutual respect and admiration for each other.