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Maryland Scientist Named Mentor of the Year

November 14, 2010

The highly-selective national college scholarship providers at the Ron Brown Scholar Program (RBSP) today announced the selection of Dr Anthony René of Potomac, Maryland as the third annual recipient of the Ron Brown Scholar Program’s Mentor-of-the-Year Award. Dr René was selected from over 7,000 guidance counselors and mentors nationally. The Mentor-of-the-Year Award was established in 2008 to recognize outstanding public servants who embody the Program’s commitment to the support of its Scholars.

Dr René recently retired from the National Institutes of Health as Assistant Director in the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Although retired, Dr René still volunteers as a mentor, introducing underrepresented students to the sciences and helping them to navigate the intricacies of the scientific world.

Announcing the award at the Program's Charlottesville, VA headquarters, RBSP Executive Director Michael Mallory said, “Tony is an exceptional individual and has played a vital role in the placement of our Ron Brown Scholars in top research facilities around the country. I cannot think of anyone who has been as passionate about directing African American students into the science fields – his legacy spans 50 years of federal service. He has been involved with our Scholars since 1998 and previously assisted me at the University of Virginia with opportunities for minorities going in to the medical field”.

Established in 1996 by the CAP Charitable Foundation, The Ron Brown Scholar Program provides support, scholarships, service opportunities and leadership experiences for young African Americans of outstanding promise. The Program seeks to accelerate their progress into the mainstream of leadership positions, while instilling a dedication to leadership and service.

Dr René recently played a vital role in guiding Ms. Victoria Tate, Ron Brown Scholar 2004, through her search for professional opportunities in the science field. “I have known Dr René for about 2 years now and in that short amount of time he has made an incredible impact” said Victoria. “I admire Dr René’s ‘pay it forward’ methodology. After my first meeting with him, I could tell that Dr René truly believed in sharing resources and helping others get to the next step. That’s exactly what he has done for me, and so many others. As a mentor, Dr René goes exceedingly above and beyond. Dr René’s sound professional and personal advice is invaluable not only to students, but also to the people with whom he volunteers with. This is just another example of his giving spirit and nurturing nature. Dr René is one of a kind and I am blessed to know him. He genuinely deserves this award”.

Dr René also mentored another Ron Brown Scholar, Danai Kadzere. “Dr René embodies what it is to be a Ron Brown Mentor of the Year: he is eager to help, dedicated to the success of those he mentors, willing to make his free time available to help others, and somehow able to put those who he mentors instantly at ease. Dr René truly is a mentor who goes above and beyond the call of duty and I owe him great thanks for all of his help”.

Read the Bio of Dr Anthony A. René
Read Student Letter of Recommendation #1
Read Student Letter of Recommendation #2

For further information please contact:
Mr. Michael A. Mallory
President, Ron Brown Scholar Fund
Executive Director, Ron Brown Scholar Program
1160 Pepsi Place, Suite 206
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Tel 434.964.1588 Fax 434.964.1589
www.ronbrown.org