About this Project
The Lerner Professional Success Initiative will strengthen three essential programs managed by the Lerner Career Services Center: the Lerner Executive Mentoring Program, the Lerner Edge Program and the Lerner Professional Attire Fund. While the Lerner Career Services Center provides comprehensive support services to our students, these programs deliver unparalleled opportunities and experiences that significantly enhance the professional development of both students and alumni.
The Lerner Executive Mentoring Program matches Lerner students through graduation with executives whose professional backgrounds are complementary to the students’ career objectives. Mentorships have resulted in an increase in student confidence in entering the workforce, expansion of professional networks and overall personal and professional growth. The program currently maintains over 600 matches (600 students, 600 mentors) annually and over 70% of the mentors in this program are alumni who are now re-engaged with the university and Lerner College.
The Lerner Edge Program offers a one-time, 30-minute appointment with a Lerner alum to seek guidance on resume, interviewing, job/internship search, salary negotiation, college to career transition, choosing a major and more. This past academic year, we matched over 500 students. Over 90% of students rated their experience as satisfied or very satisfied and would highly recommend the program to a friend.
The Lerner Professional Attire Fund provides financial support to students in need for the acquisition of professional attire tailored for upcoming interviews, job searches, internships or leadership opportunities. In Spring 2024, we provided funds to over 30 Lerner students who were first-generation, Pell-eligible, and/or low-income. All students completed a follow-up survey and uploaded pictures of what they purchased. Many students indicated the fund helped them feel more confident and empowered in upcoming interviews, internships and networking events as well as being appreciative of extra financial support to alleviate the stress of finding professional clothing.
Donor Impact: How your support makes a difference!
Donations to the Lerner Professional Success Initiative will have a direct and powerful impact on the professional growth of Lerner students. By supporting this initiative, you will help expand the reach and effectiveness of key programs like the Lerner Executive Mentoring Program, which connects students with seasoned executives, the Lerner Edge Program, which provides personalized career guidance from alumni, and the Lerner Professional Attire Fund, which equips students in need with the professional clothing essential for career success. Your contribution will enhance mentorship opportunities, provide critical career support, and alleviate financial barriers, enabling students to enter the workforce with confidence and the tools they need to succeed.
