Emily Cruse has been Be A Mentor’s Program Manager four school years and is stepping into this role effective August 1, 2023. Previously, she served as a school counselor, a nanny, a paraprofessional for special needs children, a teacher, a volunteer coach,  and a job coach. She truly loves the children, families and the business partners in the Charleston community! Emily says there are no “bad” children; however, negative behavior is often indicative of seeking one on one attention. When children have a consistent mentor, behavior often improves. Emily’s beliefs and actions align well with Be a Mentor’s mission. Emily currently mentors three mentees: Tanesha Haywood (entering year 5), Javeyon Anderson (year 5), and Sage Marcum (year 3). She also leads the Leading Ladies, interns and parenting group. Emily’s goal is to empower her girls to take her place, help her mentees develop their strengths and help connect families, community resources, and schools together.

Cara Murray was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina and is excited to join Be A Mentor as Program Manager. Cara has worked to serve the educational and social-emotional needs of children in a variety of roles including teaching 5th and 6th grade, teaching reading intervention, leading after school social and emotional learning programs and as a school counselor across grade levels. Cara believes that no matter the context, kids truly thrive when they have reliable people in their corners who can both cheer them on and hold them accountable to being and doing their best. Cara enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones and enjoying the beautiful scenery around the Lowcountry with her husband and son.