Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy kicked off its Workplace Mentoring program for the 2026 school year on Sept. 2, connecting students with mentors from businesses and organizations across Chattanooga.  

The program, which launched in 2015, equips students with professional skills through resume building, networking, mock interviews and vision board exercises. This year, the program includes three mentors on campus and 16 off campus, reaching more than 250 CGLA students. 

  “Our Workplace Mentoring Program gives students the opportunity to connect with professionals who not only expose them to a variety of career pathways, but also encourage them to dream bigger, lead boldly and recognize their own potential,” said Hannah Dalton, director of Community Engagement, Workplace Mentoring and College Advising.

“These mentors become trusted role models who help our students develop confidence, professionalism, communication skills and a greater understanding of what success can look like beyond the classroom.” 

"Participants in this program gain self-confidence, self-awareness, leadership skill development and strong communication and listening skills," officials said. "Students will be exposed to new and different perspectives where they can learn to grow their personal network, increase their chance of promotion and master the art of delivering feedback."

“Together, we are building a network of support that empowers our students to become confident leaders, lifelong learners, and changemakers in their communities,” Ms. Dalton said.  

Current partners include Hutton, EPB, Tennessee Valley Authority, STEAM Logistics, Truist, 
Astec, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Crabtree Farms, Unum, The Nature School, 
Chattanooga Zoo, Brillare Beauty Institute, Miller & Martin, Money Mavens, Reflection Riding, 
Chattanoogan Hotel and Dress for Success Chattanooga. 

Professionals interested in serving as mentors can contact CGLA at mentoring@cglaonline.com.