I haven’t blogged in a while since I’ve been so busy with work, teaching, advising and mentoring.  But, I’m ready to jump right back in — and will do so 2 – 3 times a week.   In particular, I want and need to blog when I’m really inspired and motivated.  That’s the case right now.

I’ve blogged many times in the past about a wonderful non-profit organization, Year Up, as well as our GAMBLE students from Georgetown University (Georgetown’s Aspiring Minority Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs).   With the great leadership and vision of Norean Sharpe, the Dean of the Undergraduate Business School at Georgetown, and Tynesia Boyea-Robinson, Executive Director, Year Up’s Capital Region Office, we’ve created a fantastic partnership.

Last year, 30 of the GAMBLE students mentored approximately 90 Year Up students in how to write business cases.   After a 3-week period, this culminates in a Business Case Competition at Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business.   Last year’s event was a resounding success.   And, I”m so glad to see it start today with Year 2.

I was given the great honor of providing the Kick-Off Speech this morning at the Year Up Office in Rosslyn.  I focused my speech on Philanthropy, Mentoring,  Education, Sports and Networking.  The students — both from Year Up and Georgetown — were attentive and engaged.   The one hour flew by.  Nearly half of the students came by to shake my hand and thank me.  What a great thrill.

We also two special guests … Jimmy Little from Under Armour and Todd Alston from AOL.  Jimmy’s story is remarkable and I will blog about it separately.

Last  year, I wrote an article for the Washington Post about this dynamic partnership.  Here’s the link — http://views.washingtonpost.com/leadership/guestinsights/2010/05/business-mentorship.html.

In summary, I’ve been mentored by two great individuals, Ted Leonsis and Mario Morino.  So, in our “Pay it Forward” scenario, as frequently as I can, I try my best to “give back” and share lessons I’ve learned from them — and pass it on to the next generation.   A sincere thank-you to the students — from Year Up and Georgetown Univ — for wanting to make a positive difference.