collage of 4 photos of women alumni talking and smiling with each other

Msaada Mentorship Program

In the fall of 2021, the Msaada Mentorship Program was launched. The program was developed by Anissa Patton '91 in collaboration with staff from ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø’s Office of Alumni and Family Engagement and the Matthews Center for Career Development.

Msaada, which in Kiswahili means to be of help, is designed for Black students who identify as female at ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø by matching them with Black alumnae based upon the student’s field of interest, professional aspirations, and career goals.

ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø Black alumnae who agree to participate will commit to mentor a student student for at least one year and provide her/them with: career guidance; insight into the field; networking opportunities; and professional encouragement.

While this mentorship is designed for ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø Black women students, regardless of ordinal class level, any student is eligible to apply to participate.

College Staff Liaisons

Matthews Center for Career Development: Ashley Bodie, Fellowships & Experiential Learning Adviser

Alumni and Family Engagement: Sarah Taylor, Associate Director of Alumni & Family Engagement


If you have questions about the Msaada Mentorship Program, please email msaada@davidson.edu.