Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28Washington County Attorney’s Office—2016 Annual Report 20 Mentorship Program African American Male Mentorship Program The African American Male Mentorship Program was started in 2015. At various events the young men hear from a variety of speakers who shared their stories of their background, how they chose their profession, what it takes to be successful in their various fields of work and how the students could improve their opportunities in adult life by the actions they take now. Many of the speakers were African American and it was poignant to see many of these young men make major shifts in their vision of what they thought they could do with their lives. On May 20, 2016, Pete Orput, Brent Wartner, and Sue Harris all attended the year end celebration for the African American Mentorship Program at the School of Environmental Studies located on the grounds of the Minnesota Zoo. Over 150 students, parents, and community advocates attended the event. Program highlights included student presentations, financial literacy awards, and jazz music. On December 14, 2016 the Washington County Attorney’s Office in partnership with the Tazel Institute hosted 100 students and teachers from Rosemount, Apple Valley, Eagan, Woodbury and Cottage Grove high schools for a day of educational training for African American male students with a goal of exposing the students to career opportunities in the criminal justice system. Students were introduced to the daily work experience of a prosecutor’s office and the important function that each employee has in seeking justice on behalf of the community. In addition, guest speakers provided motivational examples of how commitment and dedication can allow disadvantaged students to gain access to higher education and become successful in pursing their dreams. During this day-long event, students had an opportunity to meet with trial attorneys in different areas of the office and learned about the basic steps involved in the prosecution of a criminal case. The students also learned how the county attorney must work and collaborate with victims, law enforcement and the community to find justice. Guest presenters included Judge George Stephenson and Assistant Washington County Attorney Thomas Harmon. Participating youth are encouraged to support one another in making positive life decisions and to develop a network of mentors in governmental agencies and the business community for future career opportunities.