Sometimes the gifts we offer begin with simply being in someone’s corner. For senior Kyle Crotchfelt and his mentor, math teacher Ally Domke, four years of conversations, encouragement, and laughter have built a relationship that celebrates what Kyle brings and the leader he has become.
For math teacher Ally Domke and senior Kyle Crotchfelt, an early connection in their mentoring relationship came through their shared love of music. Kyle discovered that his mentor could keep up with his references, even songs from decades before he was born. His oldies were her old favorites. Ally knew right away they would get along.
As a freshman, Kyle found in Ally someone who could help him navigate high school, from organizing assignments to approaching another teacher. Those early conversations helped him learn to work through challenges himself. Now a senior, he brings that experience to younger students in their mentoring group, offering honest advice and encouragement.
Kyle knows the value of having someone in your corner. “She really got to know me and noticed when I needed something. I can go to her when I’m not sure what to do next, and it’s pretty great having someone looking out for you like that.”
Ally sees that same spirit in what Kyle offers others: leadership in pep band, guidance for younger mentees, and humor that can brighten anyone’s day, including hers.
“Having time for mentoring means I can see all the gifts Kyle brings,” Ally shares. “I get to watch him grow, encourage younger students, and make us laugh. I don’t think he realizes how much he gives, including to me.”
This year’s theme, “The Gifts We Offer,” comes to life in relationships like theirs, where students receive support and discover how much they have to offer.
At University, every student has a faculty or staff mentor who stays with them through all four years. Teachers teach one fewer class than a typical teaching load to make space for mentoring. That investment gives mentors time to know students well and help them grow.
Your gift to the U Fund makes that time possible. It sustains one-to-one mentoring alongside J-Term, no-cut sports, and four-year college counseling, our signature programs that help students discover their strengths and share them with others.
Please consider a gift to the U Fund today to help ensure every student has someone in their corner.
