Mentorship Spotlight

Henley-Putnam University prepares its students for successful careers in the field of Strategic Security. In keeping with the idea of training students both academically and professionally, Henley-Putnam offers mentoring services to its bachelor’s and master’s degree students so that they will have the opportunity to seek guidance from veteran professionals in their fields.

To illustrate this program, we spoke with Leland Erickson, a master’s degree student in Intelligence Management, about his relationship with his mentor, Professor Branch Walton, a retired United States Secret Service Agent and current professor at Henley-Putnam. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Walton is passionate about working with students and helping prepare them for career changes and advancement, or simply helping them balance school, work, and family life. Read below to hear what Leland has to say about the Henley-Putnam mentorship program.

Mr. Walton was so kind as to contact me directly to find out what my needs were as a newly enrolled student. Needless to say, I had many, many questions, coming from a civilian background and venturing into such new, undiscovered territory. Mr. Walton was extremely helpful, offering more than a few exciting suggestions as to possible directions of eventual employment upon completion of the program.

Mr. Walton’s initial contact alone has provided a rank newcomer with a clear sense of orientation and impending professional direction. If I was uncertain as to where this unique degree program would eventually take me, I am now crystal clear that it will take me to the next level and beyond. I need only settle on a specific ‘landing zone.’ I really appreciate how Branch and Henley-Putnam University have gone above and beyond to help me to help my career beyond the classroom.

According to Professor Walton, “It has been a true pleasure working with students like Leland. There is nothing more important to me and to this University then helping to groom the next wave of strategic security professionals – those who will be keeping our country safe for many years to come.”

Henley-Putnam professors care about their students and invest their time and knowledge so that these students will succeed in the classroom and after graduation. If you are interested in learning more about Henley-Putnam degree programs and other student resources, please contact an admissions advisor at 1.888.852.8746.