Mentorships Offer Guided Growth

In its first year, the mentorship program has already made a difference—connecting students and alumni in meaningful, faith-centered relationships that encourage personal and professional growth. The program pairs Dordt students with alumni mentors who share similar majors or career interests. Together, they talk through career goals, spiritual growth, and life after college.

For senior Lydia Zylstra (’26), the mentorship program provided guidance at a pivotal time. “My mentor was incredibly helpful in guiding me through physical therapy school applications,” she says. “He helped me think outside the box to become more well-rounded—not only as a future professional but also as a person.”

Her mentor, Stephen Brinkerhoff (’18), found the experience equally rewarding. “Watching Lydia grow through our conversations was a blessing,” he says. “After praying together about opportunities, she landed a great summer job at a clinic that will strengthen her future career.”

As a non-native English speaker, Wendy Fan (’25) sometimes doubted her ability to teach English abroad. Her mentor helped her gain confidence. “She encouraged me to trust the preparation I’d received at Dordt and reminded me that I’m equipped to teach well—even if English isn’t my first language,” Fan says. For Fan, the mentorship process offered more than advice—it reinforced her sense of calling. “Our conversations reminded me that my gifts can serve others, wherever I go,” she adds.

For alumni mentors, the experience is just as formative. “Mentorship is the practical application of discipleship,” says Brinkerhoff. “I’ve learned from mentors throughout my life and wanted to pass that on.” Lisa DeKam (’98) agrees. “I was surprised by how much I gained in return—fresh perspective, meaningful conversation, and a renewed connection to Dordt,” she says.

Many mentors and mentees find unexpected common ground. “My student was also an athlete, which helped frame our conversations,” says Travis DeJong (’04). “It reminded me of my own Dordt days.” Jane Wolterstorff (’82) says her mentee’s enthusiasm rekindled her own. “She helped me remember the excitement of starting out,” she shares. Luke Reznecheck (’12) adds, “Every call feels like a trip down memory lane—hearing about Dordt life today and seeing how strong the university’s mission remains.”

Dave Schenk ('88), Dordt’s employer relations and mentoring coordinator, says the results have been deeply encouraging. “It’s rewarding to hear alumni share how meaningful it’s been to invest in students’ growth,” he says. “The program is one more example of Dordt’s intentional, Christ-centered community.”

Reznecheck says, “It takes little time, but the chance to offer wisdom and prayer is priceless.”

About Dordt University

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.