Kansas State University

MANHATTAN — Pamela S. Erickson will join Kansas State University's College of Human Ecology on Aug. 18 as director of a mentor initiative that will pair students with professionals to help students build successful careers.

Erickson currently is director of academic advising at Washburn University, Topeka, where she also teaches a required orientation class for freshmen.

"Pamela brings experience to the job that makes her a great fit to build the foundation of this important program," said John Buckwalter, dean of the College of Human Ecology. "We are excited to have her back at K-State to lead our new program."

Erickson has a Master of Science in college student personnel and counseling and a Bachelor of Science in business administration and international marketing, both from Kansas State University.

"I am thrilled to be joining the College of Human Ecology as director of the Professional Mentoring Program. This program will provide an enriching experience for our students that will allow them to learn more about the professions in their chosen fields of study," Erickson said.

Erickson is vice chair of the Kansas Academic Advising Network and has presented on advising and on reaching underprepared students on National Academic Advising Association conferences. At Washburn she has worked with the honors program, retention and student experience planning committees.

Previously, she was program coordinator for the National Academic Advising Association.

The Professional Mentoring Program will link upper-level undergraduate and graduate students with professionals in their field of study who can advise them on networking, professional development opportunities and other career-related topics.

"Mentors will offer their time and resources to students, listening, coaching and sharing valuable skills and insights into the professional world," Buckwalter said about the new program.

"My hope is the mentorship program will allow students and alumni and friends to create lasting professional relationships. This is a great opportunity for human ecology students at K-State to take part in what truly could be a transformational experience," Erickson said.

The College of Human Ecology, which enrolls more than 2,800 students, encompasses the departments of apparel, textiles, and interior design; hospitality management and dietetics; human nutrition; kinesiology; and the School of Family Studies and Human Services.

More information about the college or the mentoring program is available at 785-532-5500 or he@k-state.edu.