“More than anything in the world, Emily wants her mentee to be successful and independent. Emily can definitely take credit for some of her student’s confidence today, and thanks in part to Emily’s consistent, supportive presence, her mentee is flourishing.” -Paola Loera, BA, CISNT Site Coordinator, Bridgeport High School
Emily Pivoda began mentoring with Communities In Schools of North Texas ten years ago and is a highly dedicated volunteer. Emily has been matched with several different students but has spent the last seven years pouring into the life of a Bridgeport ISD student. Having worked with her mentee from 6th to 12th grade, Emily has consistently shown up week in and week out to be present for her mentee. Emily recognized that her student had a talent for arts and crafts and started building a relationship with her through artistic activities to help bring her mentee out of her shell. The two formed a quick bond, creating trading cards for each other, drawing pictures, making hats, bags, and slime, and crafting Christmas presents each year.
Emily began to see positive shifts in her mentee’s confidence in middle school. Her student began greeting others, making friends, and even performing in the school talent show! Now in high school, Emily works on college and career readiness activities with her mentee, coaching her on how to manage difficult conversations and situations and cheering on her mentee’s pursuits.
As her mentee prepares to graduate, Emily is beyond excited for her. Emily truly has a heart of gold and has done so much over the years for her mentee. Thank you, Emily, for supporting your mentee, CISNT, and North Texas students! We hope that every student has the opportunity to have an Emily Pivoda in their life!
Congratulations on being named the 2024 CISNT Volunteer of the Year!
Watch her video, crafted by Mixed Media Creations, here.
