Abstract

The Presidential Mentors Academy (PMA) was established at the University of North Alabama to fulfill needs of diverse students. The academy was established in 1997 to recruit, mentor and retain diverse students into higher education at the University of North Alabama. The PMA program has fostered interactions among students from diverse cultures and has enhanced an educational environment where students feel comfortable and accepted.

PMA Academy Objectives include:

• Provides living/learning experiences for students with a head start.
• College awareness and integration will increase retention of minority students.
• Enhances self-worth, confidence and esteem.
• Enhances progression, retention, and completion of undergraduate degree.

Strategic Goals, areas of identified needs and building on existing interest and opportunities are successful outcome initiatives.