By Brandon Seng
ConnectMichigan Alliance

Dreams are important to Albion College and its community.  To ensure that those dreams are attainable, the Jessie’s Gift mentoring program matches college students with fourth and fifth graders in the public school system there.

Jessie Longhurst, for whom the program is named, was lost to Albion in a tragic car accident more than a year ago.

 Jessie is remembered as a terrific dreamer, who served her community with both tact and grace.  She selflessly supported mentoring, and other programs that served Albion’s young people.

“I can not think of a better way to remember a child, than by benefiting the children of many,” said Larry Ley, Albion Public School’s superintendent.

Leading up to the accident in which Jessie was lost, she participated as the only high school mentor in a developing Albion College mentoring program under Professor Len Berkey.

After news spread of Jessie’s accident, Berkey immediately changed the program to Jessie’s Gift, in remembrance of Jessie’s contributions to the students of Albion.

“Jessie was a girl with big dreams,” said her mother, Lynn Longhurst, in a speech to program mentees.  “Now, these dreams can not come true for her, but they can come true for you.”

Students are responding well, with improved behavior and higher grades.  Fourth grade mentees are described by their teacher as being territorial when it comes to their mentors.

Harry Bonner of Minority Program services, who team teaches a Jessie’s Gift course, is inspired by the response from the college students.

“As busy as Albion students are, it is amazing the amount of energy, heart and dedication that they bring to the program.”

When asked about their experience, the mentors point out that they are getting more out of the program than their grade school counterparts.  Community involvement and social impact are atop of their list of achievements gained through Jessie’s Gift. 

“The program is very rewarding,” said mentor Cheryl Becker, “it is worth more than just the grade.”

Jessie continues to reach out to the youth through this program, and inspires classmates to discover her greatness within themselves.

“I can make a difference in the neighborhood,” said mentor Brittany Westbrook.  “I can keep them out of trouble.”

According to school teachers, mentors almost always seek venues to connect with their child outside of the classroom, and are making overtures to become an element of the family.

“Many of these mentors have come through the Albion school system,” said fifth grade teacher Eric Petro.  “It’s heartwarming to see them giving back. They are learning a lot about life, very quickly.”

Albion’s Sociology 402 course highlights the mission and vision of Jessie’s Gift.  The syllabus uses language rarely seen at the college level, and demonstrates Albion’s commitment to service.

“Jessie’s passion, wisdom, energy, generosity and incredible sense of humor, along with her heartfelt commitment to racial justice in America, are the benchmarks against which we will be measured.  Her dedication to the Albion community and its children was truly a gift to us all.”