PROJECT SUMMARY

The BHSEC Smart Scholars program was established in 2010 in order to provide the foundation for the Diversity Initiative’s goal – to ensure that students, who come from diverse cultures and backgrounds have an opportunity to complete the high school and college programs at BHSEC Manhattan with the same rate of success as their peers. It focuses on increasing the access to our early-college experience for qualified, deserving and often underrepresented students from across New York City. The Smart Scholars Program provides additional academic support, mentorship, professional and leadership development, and a sense of community to students, from historically underrepresented and/or economically disadvantaged backgrounds, during their four years at BHSEC Manhattan. The program encourages participation from all students, regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, religion, economic status, immigration status, or any other identity in an effort to create an inclusive and collaborative school environment.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Co-design and co-facilitate workshops and initiatives for Smart Scholars that facilitate a strong, supportive and welcoming community
• Engage Smart Scholars in workshops and experiences that encourage and increase identity, professional and leadership development
• Keep the Smart Scholars community, and BHSEC-M community at large, informed of upcoming Smart Scholars events and programming
• Work with Program Directors to plan and coordinate the mentorship application and selection process
• Support the planning of, coordinate, and co-facilitate Mentor trainings
• Provide Mentors with support and guidance in planning events and programs, scheduling regular check-in meetings and providing access to resources
• Recommend tips and strategies on effective marketing and advertising strategies to ensure optimal event attendance and participation
• Ensure Mentors are fulfilling the responsibilities and expectations of their positions
• Co-design and structure the 3-week summer programming for incoming students
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Smart Scholars.