What does an Academic Dean, the "Oracle of Omaha," one of Forbes' "World's 100 Most Powerful Women," a Grammy Award winning vocalist, a glass sculptor, the first woman to run the Boston Marathon, and a National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee all have in common?
They were all motivated by mentors. Be inspired by the influences of these leaders in the new book compiled by Marcia McMullen. These contemporary mentoring stories illustrate the diverse and familiar relationships in which mentors often appear. The elegant wisdom of "it only takes one" is magnified in each contributor's own words and personal, inspirational story. When you finish this book, give it to someone you who inspired you or someone you admire. This book is intended to spark conversation, build connections and foster gratitude for the person that shaped your thinking or influenced your path. "Because You Believed in Me is a luminous and poignant work about generosity and mentorship. This tribute to those who've inspired and nurtured us will serve as an inspiration to all who read it-the wisdom contained within is priceless!"
-Dave Isay, Founder of StoryCorps "These personal stories showcase the profound and lasting impact a mentor can have. Mentoring relationships, in particular for women, are critical to fostering the entrepreneurial spirit and helping to bridge the gap between confidence and capability."
-Ambassador Melanne Verveer, Executive Director, Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security "Because You Believed in Me is a glimpse into everyday mentoring stories that will leave you scrolling through your mental list of your own mentors. You just might be inspired to pick up the phone, send them a note to say, 'Thank you-you made a difference.' "
-Chester E. Cadieux III, Chairman and CEO, QuikTrip Corporation
"Because You Believed in Me offers a compelling glimpse into one of the most critical elements of success: the mentor/protégé relationship. Each story is told from a vulnerable and candid perspective, and the lessons are timeless. A must-read for mentors and protégés alike."
-Charles Best, Founder, Donors Choose
"In this page turner, you'll discover the true meaning of mentorship. Because You Believed in Me will give you life, hope and a sense of destiny. It will inspire you to think of those whose shoulders you now stand on.
-Tim Sanders, author of Today We Are Rich and Love Is the Killer App
"All great leaders typically got a break from someone at some point in their life: A moment that matters. A lesson you never forget. Because You Believed in Me tells simple, important stories that, once savored and absorbed, will make us all better leaders, better students, and better human beings."
-Larry Keeley, President and Co-founder, Doblin
About the Author: Marcia McMullen is a writer, researcher, and author. Inspired by outstanding mentors she became fascinated by the reach of key relationships and connecting elements of a mentor's influence on our personal narrative and individual legacy. Patricia Miller (1940-2014) was a recognized leader in strategic program planning and organizational management. Patricia dedicated herself to her professional and volunteer leadership roles with many community organizations and was a fellow of the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership at the University of Missouri at Kansas City.