The Toppel Career Center's Career Champions Network initiative opens a door for students to find guidance at the start of their careers. Since its launch in 2020, the initiative celebrates a milestone of 100 committed members.
The title of Career Champion is earned by faculty and staff members who complete a series of collaborative sessions, centered on educational framework, technology, and mentorship. Once a part of the Career Champions Network, members receive a decal to display outside of their office. This symbol can be found around campus and invites students to begin a conversation with a member about their career goals and to seek advice.
LaToya Farris, assistant athletic director, office of student-athlete development, became a Career Champion in 2021 and she continues to play a critical role in student development.
“I joined the initiative to grow my knowledge of career resources offered at the University. Now I can share them with our student-athletes and help them navigate their career development and readiness,” said Farris.
The Career Champions Network is open to all University faculty and staff members who are committed to supporting the professional development of students.
“The more students hear about resources from trusted staff and faculty, the more likely they are to use them. It allows us to help students be prepared for life after graduation,” said Farris.
Faculty and staff members should complete the Career Champions Network interest form and attend the following three sessions:
Career Education Trends and Frameworks
Thursday, Sept. 22, at 3:30 p.m.
Duration: 90 minutes
Gain insight into new trends happening in career education and the frameworks we utilize to support our students in their careers.
Using Technology to Navigate Careers
Thursday, Oct. 20, at 3:30 p.m.
Duration: 90 minutes
Watch a demonstration about our Handshake and Cane2Cane platforms and learn ways to incorporate them into your work.
Explore, Prepare, Connect: Our Model for Supporting Students
Thursday, Nov. 17, at 3:30 p.m.
Duration: 90 minutes
Discuss how we can better support students through the processes of exploring, preparing, and connecting.
The Toppel Career Center is excited to grow its support system for University students. To learn more about the Career Champions Network, email Carly Smith at carly@miami.edu.
