In the fall of 2021, the Msaada Mentorship Program was launched. The program was developed by Anissa Patton '91 in collaboration with staff from Davidson College’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 Davidson College by matching them with Black alumnae based upon the student’s field of interest, professional aspirations, and career goals.

Davidson 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 Davidson Black women students, regardless of ordinal class level, any student is eligible to apply to participate.

Get Involved

If you are interested in serving as a mentor please complete the interest form. New students will receive an invitation to participate.

Connect with other mentors and mentees in the Msaada Davidson Connect group (login required).

Msaada Mentor Interest Form

College Staff Liaisons

Matthews Center for Career Development

  • Ashley Bodie, Fellowships & Experiential Learning Adviser
  • Dr. Raquel Dailey, Associate Director for Inclusion & International Career Development

Alumni and Family Engagement

  • Sarah Taylor, Associate Director 

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