Facilitators: Amy Crowley-Gonsoulin and Dr. Jorge Michael Culler

What if the key to student success isn’t just what we teach—but how we connect? Inspired by Clint Pulver’s I Love It Here, this session explores how educators at every stage can lead through mentorship to create learning environments where students feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Participants will explore:

• How emotional intelligence and relational trust impact student engagement and achievement.
• Practical ways to build “mentor moments” into everyday teaching.
• Strategies to foster a sense of belonging that helps students persist and thrive.

Whether you’re preparing to enter the classroom or guiding others through it, this session offers tools and reflection to help you lead with empathy—and create spaces where students want to stay, grow, and succeed.