Getting Started
For your assigned Magis Mentoring, you will need to meet with a mentor the number of times specified in your Student Conduct Outcome letter.
Please select a mentor* from the list below that you would like to meet with and contact them inviting them to be your mentor. Here is a list of details you should include in your first outreach:
- Number of required meetings.
- Three (3) possible times to meet for your first.
- The due date of the outcome.
- What you hope to get out of mentoring.
- Ask if they are open and available to be your mentor.
Your first choice of mentor may not have the time or capacity to serve as your mentor. Please be prepared to select another mentor from the list if they are unable.
Mentor meetings should be scheduled on a weekly or bi-weekly interval and will last about 45-60 minutes. Meetings should not be closer than 4 days together to allow for reflection between meetings.
*Only mentors who are on the list may be used to complete this outcome. If you know a university employee who you believe would be a good mentor, please let the Resolution Center know so that
we can connect with them as they may be able to serve in future mentorship opportunities.
After your final mentorship session
Your mentor will inform our office of the number of sessions you have completed together. At this point the outcome is considered complete.
List of Mentors
simonj@gonzaga.edu
Hi, I’m Jim and I love to run the trails around Spokane with my dog Chewie and collect and listen to vinyl records. I’m really enjoying listening to Ty Segall lately—check him out! I’ve also become somewhat of an expert on Pokemon through osmosis from my seven year old son! I love to learn about people and listen to their stories. I am glad to chat about anything you’d like, which could be the challenges of growing up, meeting expectations (yours or someone else’s), or the challenges of depression and anxiety. I’m excited to hear your story, so let’s meet!
pancoast@gonzaga.edu
Hello! I’m Sierra and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to get to know you more. If there’s a mountain, you’ll find me either skiing or hiking. Prior to working at Gonzaga, I was a certified Wilderness First Responder and spent time in a lot of our national parks. I enjoy spending time outdoors because I appreciate the ability to reflect on the goals and relationships in my life. I like the chance to think about how I can be a confident decision maker and hold true to my own values. This is not always easy since I’m juggling various expectations from friends and family, but I prioritize my independence. Being outside also gives me the chance to unplug and step away from the many commitments I have. It’s so easy to become over-involved and I find peace in being in a new environment and stepping away from the chaos to gain new perspectives. Let’s get together and chat!
kearnsiii@gonzaga.edu
Hi, I’m Patrick! I’m an International Student Advisor at GU. Having taught in China for the last five years, I developed a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and the joy of learning from different traditions and customs. In my free time, I continue to study Chinese, I’ve developed an interest in trading stocks, and when I’m not studying or trading you can find me playing video games with friends or exploring nature. I firmly believe in assuming good intentions, taking the time to analyze situations, and seeking growth opportunities and new perspectives. I’ve gone through a lot of trials in life, so I feel like I can truly connect with you and help guide you through challenging times. I look forward to meeting you!
weaverv@gonzaga.edu
Hi, I’m Vicki! I am a part of the Center for Student Academic Success and enjoy working with students as they decide what “success” looks like for them. I’m an animal lover, and have four cats – so, yes, you could say I’m that quintessential Cat Lady. I find the Spokane area perfect for walking, hiking, and taking drives through the hills of the Palouse to little towns that have great vintage shopping. Before beginning my career at Gonzaga, I was a school Principal in Australia, and also worked with University students studying to become teachers and migrant professionals hoping to teach in Australia. Through my own experiences, I am extremely aware that life isn’t easy right now – decision-making, dealing with finances, balancing study, work and friendships, managing mental health concerns…. If I am able to be a sounding board for others experiencing challenges, I’m definitely here for that. Be in touch!
hickeyb@gonzaga.edu
Hi, I’m Bethany! I am one of the Assistant Directors in the Resolution Center, but before that I worked in various public and community health settings at GU and throughout the community. My topics of expertise were sexual health, healthy relationships, personal boundaries, and violence prevention. When I am not at work, I am spending time with my family. I have three kids who keep me busy with all kinds of sports, swimming, and other activities, so I love talking with people about their hobbies. Social justice issues are near and dear to my heart, so it’s also likely you’ll see me at marches, city council, or school board meetings in my spare time. My favorite way to spend my “me time” though would have to be reading a great book that has ZERO to do with work, school, or self-help. If it doesn’t have dragons, fae, or aliens, I am not here for it. College is an exciting time, figuring out who you are going to be and what you are capable of. That growth typically includes some challenges, mistakes, and new situations you are not sure how to navigate. I am happy to walk beside you on this journey!
somrah@gonzaga.edu
Hi! My name is Joshua Somrah, but I also go by Josh, and I am looking forward to getting to know you more through this process. I grew up and did all of my schooling in New York, but I moved across the country in 2021 to be a Residence Director here at GU. Through my work here I have become a mentor to and advocate for many students on campus, especially our Students of Color. In my free time I enjoy going for walks around campus and going to the movies at the AMC Downtown. I am happy to chat with you about whatever you would like and to support you as best as I can during our time together here at GU. I am aware that college can be a challenging time for many students as they have to juggle multiple aspects of their lives and identities, but I hope to be able to help you navigate your college journey in a positive way. If you want to chat with me, feel free to reach out!
Ben Chu (he/him/his)
chu@gonzaga.edu
Hello! My name is Ben, and I'm living out my dream job as a Specialist for Ecological Spirituality with our Office of Mission and Ministry where I get to give students opportunities to deepen their relationships to the sacred in people and planet. Before this, I was a wildland firefighter for eight years which shaped my awe and reverence for the power of nature. I've also found healing through periods of solitude in the wilderness. I enjoy woodworking, making traditional Korean tea, and hiking with my wife and kids. I see the university journey as a liminal space - a place of "betweenness" in which there's an abundance of room for exploration, growth, and transformation. I am deeply grateful and privileged to be able to accompany students in this journey, and if you feel that I could be of service to you as a mentor, you are most welcome to contact me.
McKenzie Hand
hand@gonzaga.edu
Hi, I’m McKenzie! I work in the Academic Advising office as an advisor and really enjoy working with students during their time at Gonzaga. In my free time, I love to hike and travel with my husband, Cody, and our dog, Huckleberry. I also like reading, running, and thrifting. I’m excited to meet you and listen to your story!
Haile Watson
watsonh@gonzaga.edu
Hi, I'm Haile! In my free time you can find me indulging in self-care. Self-care for me looks like a brisk walk, curling up with a good book or baking a sweet treat. Here at Gonzaga, I work in our Center for Cura Personalis as a Case Manager. In my role, I get to work one-on-one with students discussing their unique experiences. By connecting students to the right support, I've been honored to watch them grow in their journeys. College can pose many challenges, but I believe every student can find success. I hope to get to know you better and aim to create a space where you feel open to discuss goals, hardships, and opportunities. Let's get together and chat!
Sandra Vance
vance@gonzaga.edu
Hi, I’m Sandra Vance! I am an Assistant Director of Admission and Visit Coordinator here at GU, and I’ve been working here in admission since I graduated in 2018. When I’m not at work, you can find me spending time with my husband and our dog, Missy, pictured here! I love checking out different markets and local businesses here in Spokane and in the surrounding areas. During the summer you can expect that I’m spending most weekends camping or taking daytrips to the lake. When the weather isn’t as cooperative, you can find me checking out new restaurants, gathering with friends, and spending too much time in coffee shops. In addition, I’ve recently gotten back into reading and I’m a big fan of live music. Personally, professionally, and academically I have dealt with a number of my own setbacks and obstacles. I am a firm believer in the value of community and conversation. I hope to be able to connect with you and chat about anything that you’re facing across any of the aspects of your life as a student. Feel free to reach out!
Danielle Teague
teague@gonzaga.edu
Hello! My name is Danielle and I work is Assessment, Accreditation, and Programs. I have been working at Gonzaga since 2017 and spent my first six years here as an academic advisor. I love spending time outdoors, whether it is a lazy afternoon in the garden, a stroll on the centennial trail, or a lengthy hike. I am also quite content with rainy days spent with my family, cozied up with a great book and my calico cat, watching Ted Lasso or any other heartwarming show on repeat, or doing something creative! I appreciate the opportunity to accompany students as they navigate their curricular and co-curricular experiences at university. I know balancing all the things life throws our way can be challenging and at times overwhelming. I would be happy to listen if you want to chat!