Celebrating Legacy & Building Connections
Celebrating Legacy & Building Connections: SCPD Hosts CMP Spring Mixer and 40th Anniversary Close-Out Event
The Student Center for Professional Development (SCPD) kicked off the new year with a memorable evening as it hosted the Corporate Mentoring Program (CMP) Spring Mixer, combined with SCPD’s 40th Anniversary Celebration Close-Out Event, on January 29 at the Anna W. Ngai Alumni Center. The event brought together students, mentors, and partners for a night of networking, and honoring the legacy that sparked four decades of student success. The evening opened with a warm welcome acknowledging the significance of gathering a room full of those who have all played a part in the SCPD story. The timing was especially meaningful as January is National Mentoring Month, making it the perfect moment to recognize the profound dedication of CMP mentors whose guidance fuels student growth and career readiness.
A highlight of the night was a distinguished recognition ceremony honoring the founders of SCPD’s original iteration, then known as the Minority Business Program (MBP). In the mid‑1980s, student leaders Lazena (Kelly) Andrada and Felicia (Jolivet) Divinity of the Black Business Students Association (BBSA) identified gaps in academic and career support for their peers. Their advocacy, supported by Dean Mohamed Moustafa and Associate Dean Valerie Bordeaux, launched the program that would ultimately evolve into SCPD. Their vision has since grown into a 40‑year legacy of mentorship, leadership, and life‑changing opportunities. Both Lazena and Felicia returned for the celebration, where they were honored with Awards of Legacy and Leadership for lighting the path that thousands of students have walked since.
In true SCPD fashion, the evening centered on connection. Guided networking rounds filled the agenda, giving students, mentors, and special guests multiple opportunities to share stories, build relationships, and expand their professional communities. Structured prompts supported meaningful conversations, while campus partners helped foster a growth‑oriented environment. The celebration concluded with closing remarks of gratitude, reflection, and continued commitment to student success, an inspiring end to an evening that honored the past while strengthening the future of SCPD.
