Call Me MiSTER® (Mentors Instructing Students Toward Effective Role Models) is a nationally recognized program originally founded at Clemson University in 2000. Its mission is to increase the number of male teachers from diverse backgrounds, particularly in schools that need them most.

Since 2007, Longwood University has proudly been part of the Call Me MiSTER program, working to address the critical shortage of male teachers—especially minority males—in Virginia’s schools. Research consistently shows that students benefit when their teachers reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, and Call Me MiSTER is dedicated to making that a reality.

Our Mission

The Call Me MiSTER program at Longwood University is committed to preparing future educators who will serve as strong role models and leaders in the classroom. Our goal is to empower young men from underserved and socio-economically disadvantaged communities to become highly effective teachers who inspire and uplift the next generation.

Program Benefits

MiSTERs receive:

  • Tuition assistance for approved teacher education programs
  • Academic support to ensure success in their studies
  • A strong cohort system for social and cultural support
  • Job placement assistance upon graduation

National Vision Statement

"I am a dedicated Servant Leader who is perpetuating a sorely needed concept—Servant-Leaders as role models in elementary schools. I am devoted to planting seeds of dignity and respect in children and inspiring them to cultivate those seeds, producing a crop of unprecedented success. I will teach reading, writing, and arithmetic and progress to self-esteem, imagination, and determination. Because of my immeasurable promise, not only have I earned your respect, I demand it! A title is only important if one's character and integrity dictate its use. When you address me, please verbalize my destiny... Please do not call me by my first name... Call me in reference to my great vision... Call Me MISTER!”

If you’re passionate about making a difference in education and shaping young minds, Call Me MiSTER at Longwood University can help you achieve that goal.

Recent Highlights