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By Meredith Amor Director of Communications, Barry University
February 2, 2021, Miami, Florida – Barry University President Dr. Mike Allen and Gale Nelson, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, formalized a partnership to connect Barry University students, faculty, and staff with mentorship and community engagement opportunities through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami. They signed a formal Memorandum of Understanding on January 28, 2021, on Barry University’s main campus during a physically distanced ceremony in front of a small group of representatives from each organization.
The agreement, known as the “Buccaneer Partnership,” will focus on one-to-one mentoring for children of incarcerated parents, with the shared goal of empowering local youth to achieve success and personal growth.
“At Barry University, collaborative service and a commitment to social justice are woven throughout every aspect of our institution,” Dr. Allen said. “Today’s partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami is the natural outgrowth of our shared values and dedication to the community. I am thrilled to formalize the agreement and excited about what we will achieve as partners.”
In addition to receiving mentorship from individuals within the Barry community, youth participating in the program will have access to Barry University college readiness resources, workshops, and special programs. Barry University students will have the added benefit of expanded internship opportunities with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami.
"I believe in the power of partnership,” Mr. Nelson said. “Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami and Barry University will work together to help our youth and their families in the areas of education, mentoring, social justice, and workforce development – community at its best!”