the mentor

By: Jamie Enge

GGregory Alan Dendy, Jr. is a highly respected and experienced individual and mentor who has a strong commitment to serving others As we shine a spotlight on his work related to mentorship, it is clear that Mr Dendy's passion for helping others is matched only by his dedication to excellence

Tell us a little about your background, who you are, where you're from, etc.

My name is Gregory A. Dendy, Jr., a native of Southeast Washington, D C, and I am a second-year doctoral student at Morgan State University I am the oldest of 5 children in a singleparent household, and two bonus siblings who I love dearly As the oldest of the home, I was always recognized as the standard creator or even the curse breaker. As the golden child, this mentality was more of responsibility than it was a superlative Because I saw this as a responsibility, I have used that energy to propel me in my everyday successes where possible This mentality helps to shape the way I engage with students and professionals on a daily basis.

In 2014, I attended Fisk University a small private liberal arts HBCU in Nashville, Tennessee as a firstgeneration and limited-income college student Many of my experiences there helped refine my attitude towards my responsibility as the golden child I became an advocate for the work of Student Success. After graduating in May of 2018 with a degrees in Political Science and Sociology, I wanted to continue my work focusing on developing the idea of success within Higher Education with the marginalized in mind With that thought in mind, I continued my education at Vanderbilt Divinity School in Nashville, Tennessee For me, my focus was on something other than practicing ministry as usual. I coined myself as the ‘Higher Education Minister’ or H.E.M. This title was coined through the influence of Sam Cook’s discography and the scriptural reference to the woman with the issue of blood As a HEM, I wanted to bridge the gap between higher education and the spirit of intentional community engagement, but with the marginalized in mind I was able to obtain my Master of Divinity with a concentration in Black Religion and Culture Studies, with my thesis titled Ministry of Higher Education: The Role of The Master Teacher in Higher Education. After completing this noble accomplishment, I knew my work was incomplete It was time, even amidst a pandemic, to take on the challenge that helped make me who I am today I wanted to take on the beast that is Higher Education. I returned to my HBCU roots, after being accepted as a doctoral student, at Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD as a Higher Education Student Affairs student. Many would argue that I have yet to take a break, but my responsibility as the golden-child won’t allow me to see those with whom I share identities suffer any more than required

Who are the mentors (if any) that have had the most significant influence on you? What was the best piece of advice they gave you?

If I were to think about mentors that have had the most significant influence on me, beyond those who are often celebrated due to their political status, I would have to say Dr. Darryl Hylton (CEO of The Collegiate Black Male Network) and James Wagner, current writer for the New York Times. These two gentlemen are people I saw myself looking up to and still celebrate the moments we shared and the push they offered me that helped to create who I am today

Dr Hylton has always reminded me that I cannot expect others to want my success as much as I want it for myself. That mentality helped remind me to be thankful for the support I have and appreciate it as much as possible. As someone with a big heart and dedication to service, I often think the best of everyone and when moments come where I am failed I would take on the burden of responsibility.

James was quite beneficial in my upbringing due to him being a great writer. I often am a great lover of the idea of storytelling, mainly due to him James would constantly remind me to flex or showcase my bragging rights. Being able to and comfortable sharing my story helps me with those moments of imposture syndrome I never truly understood the power of storytelling before meeting James.

What does mentorship mean to you?

Mentorship is both a responsibility and an opportunity to assist with present and future problems. As a responsibility, it is essential that we offer mentorship for the overall uplifting of society If we desire to see shifts in society for good, mentorship is just the beginning. As an opportunity, mentorship should be celebrated and cherished like one would a newborn baby. We should be intentional with all that we do around mentoring others. Sacrifices should be made in order to account for potential growth across all parties. One thing I also believe is necessary with mentorship is establishing boundaries and honoring them. We live in a world where a lot of people assume mentorship is a lifelong commitment. Mentorship should have terms and conditions, so that all parties are aware of what expected results look like. One should be able to re-address the terms and conditions where necessary regarding mentorship. Should all parties come together and realize mentorship is no longer needed, that is understandable and there should be no hard feelings as the tools and experiences gained will allow all to succeed

What attracted you to work in the field of higher education?

My identities as a First-Generation Limited Income and being a Black male, are what attracted me to work in higher education. In my experience, I think about areas of opportunities where those identities were not always affirmed or supported and desire to be the person who creates the change for the future

Tell us about your Morgan State University and The Collegiate Black Male Network work.

At Morgan State University, I am a Student Affairs Professional working within the Student Affairs Division In my role, I work as a Resident Director for a community of 200+ first year male students These students are a joy to work with. I am grateful for the opportunity to leverage my privilege, experiences, and intellect for their support. As someone who believes in student success, beyond that of the academics, this can be as simple as teaching a resident how to tie a tie or as complex as offering advice for relationships in 2023. Regardless, I love my experience with the students here.

As the Director of National Programs for the Collegiate Black Male Network, I enjoy the work of being able to spearhead the programming for the national organization It allows me to remain engaged with the college students worldwide and supporters of those with whom I share identities I also am able to assist in providing platforms for students to share their experiences That is social justice work for me.

Serving as a direct service program of The Collegiate Black Male Network speaks more about ONYX25 and the need behind it.

The great thing about ONYX 25 Under 25 Recognition and Leadership Program is the fact that this opportunity is available for undergraduate students who are engaged with their campus community and who desire support with their dreams and professional aspirations. These students are able to connect with other students who look like them and share similar passions with one another, creating a community that is worth buying into The students are also given a chance at success regardless of their grade point average and major Often we see opportunities being granted to a certain archetype of student ONYX25 wants to support the work of student success regardless of a student’s access to resources The only thing that students must have, besides our qualifications, in order to participate in ONYX25 is a sense of commitment. As the Director of National Programs, I am committed to student success. Now is the time for our collegiate Black male students to control their narrative and show up for themselves. We will be here ready and excited for your success.

What has been the most rewarding experience working with young black males?

I would make the case that the most reqarding experience with working with young Black males is when you begin to see their lives or actions change because of your support It is not often that young Black males are able to express themselves, but often in their actions, we can see the mark that is left on them This also applies to me I believe often, young Black males assume that they are not equipped to make an impression on people they look up to or work alongside As I expect young Black males to learn from me, I am also humble enough to mention that often I am willing and learning from young Black males.

What specific advice would you give those looking to mentor Black men?

If you are looking to mentor Black men, it is necessary that you are just as open and transparent about your intentions as you expect from them. We have witnessed countlessly too many times where people were desiring to mentor with other motives in mind and it has often failed our Black men. If you desire to mentor, be able to be mentored. If you are not able to provide what you expect with mentoring Black men, it is simply not your time yet