MILE: Memphis Institute for Leadership Education

What is MILE?

The Memphis Institute for Leadership Education (MILE) program connects successful Fogelman undergraduates with a mentor in their destination career. Students (and their mentors) grow through a year-long experience that includes monthly meetings with speakers and leadership development activities, as well as one-on-ones between protégé and mentor.

What are some benefits to students?

Acquire leadership and soft skills valued by employers.
Build a professional network to gain an advantage finding internship and employment opportunities.

What are some benefits to mentors?

Impact the career success of a top FCBE student.
Identify potential interns and future hires through MILE participation.

Who is eligible?

Students who will be a sophomore, junior, or senior this coming fall, AND
3.0 GPA or higher.

What is the next step?

Click here to register and attend an information session. (Students must attend an information session to join).

Testimonials

"I have been involved with MILE since its inception. MILE allows me to continue my education and keeps me connected to the University of Memphis in a way that has developed my leadership skills and it allows for invaluable networking opportunities. MILE has given me confidence in myself and confidence in future generations, as the students are the most impressive part of the MILE program. Over the years I have had a number of protege's in the MILE program." -Diane Malkin, MBA, GRI. Marx-Bendorf Realtors.

"MILE was the source of connections that helped me build multiple job opportunities. Through networking with my fellow proteges and their mentors I received a position as a copywriter for multiple local businesses through a Memphis marketing company. I also was able to learn more about International Paper and get to know the people of the company, which had a great influence in me receiving an internship with them. MILE is overflowing with networking and opportunity for everyone involved and I'm so grateful I took part during my time at Memphis." -Amberlie Ezell. MILE class of 2019.

"Having had the privilege to serve the MILE program as a mentor and board member over the past 9 years, I've witnessed firsthand the power and effectiveness of this program. MILE has allowed me the opportunity to network with and serve alongside other dedicated business community leaders while giving back to the greater community and helping to develop the next generation of leaders. My participation in MILE has challenged me to develop and hone my leadership skills as a mentor. I've told every protégé I ever had that I wish there had been something like MILE when I was an undergrad at Memphis, and now that there is, I'm very proud of my association with both the program and the Fogelman College of Business."-Verlinda Henning. Owner, FaithPeople Memphis

"I can truly say being a part of the Mile program was the best decision that I made after transferring to the University of Memphis. I am grateful for the program and my mentor who provided me with endless support and encouragement. Through various mentoring activities that consisted of building leadership capabilities, I developed skills that have opened many opportunities and I have no doubt it will continue to progress throughout my career. Being a part of the program is a career building experience every student at the FCBE should explore." -Yasenia Mata. Marketing & Logistics Analyst, IKEA