Each year, JAG National invites state affiliates to nominate up to three Outstanding Specialist award winners. These award winners are all-around outstanding, consistently delivering on the mission and offering best-in-class programs. Each year, specialists from across the state are nominated by their managers and peers, and three awardees are selected. We are excited to give you the opportunity to learn more about one of our three winners, Charron Basey.
Charron Basey, JMG Specialist for 5 years with the Lansing School District Out of School program
Why did you become a JMG Specialist? I became a Specialist because I wanted to become a part of something bigger than me. Being a specialist allows me the opportunity to mentor youth in a manner in which I would have liked to have been mentored as a youth. It also allows me the ability to expose them to things in which they may never have been exposed. These past 5 years have been a roller coaster, but it's also a ride I would get on again and again.
What inspires you about your job? The inspiration I receive from this job is watching those moments when they (students) finally get it, that light bulb moment. My main inspiration comes from providing wonderful service to every student I come in contact with, allowing us to build a relationship and keep an on going rapport after they have finished this part of their journey.
Recall a favorite memory about being a specialist. My favorite memory was on March 11, 2020. I had a male student by the name of Supreem, this was his final chance to take his math test before he had to wait another 60 days. He came in early and left late. On his test day, he met us at the door and was ready to study before his test. He studied until the final minute. When the test was finished and we found out he had passed, everyone in the office cried tears of joy upon his successful completion.
What is one of the greatest challenges you face in your job? One of my challenges I face in my job is getting my students to believe they are good enough to compete with the best of them. Believing in themselves is half the battle.
What is one of the greatest highlights/joys of your job? One of the greatest highlights of my job was seeing my students' faces when they realized they had taken 2nd place in one of the Career Development Conference competitions.
Why do you think JMG is so important for youth? JMG is important because it helps youth figure out who they are and what they can become. We help them with very little expectation except for finishing the goals they have set for themselves. We, as Specialists, become more than just that, we actively listen to their issues so we can better assist them. We act as counselors, mothers, fathers and sometimes just a good friend when no one else seems to be around.
Share your hobbies, do you have any pets, what do you like to do in your spare time? Some of my hobbies include crafting, dancing and listening to audio books. RANDOM FACTS: I sing in the choir at church and also I am the choir director. Oh and I love my shoes!!!