This month, Everybody Wins! Iowa is proud to celebrate an extraordinary milestone, five mentors who have each given 20 or more years of their time, heart, and dedication to students through our reading and mentoring program.
That’s not just a number. It’s hundreds of students. Thousands of books. Countless weekly moments of encouragement, patience, and joy.
Honoring Our 20+ Year Mentors
We are deeply grateful to recognize the following mentors for reaching this incredible milestone:
- Rob Barron
- Drew Gentsch
- Robert Hamill
- Dorrie Marshall
- Carol Millar
For more than two decades, these mentors have shown up—week after week—ready to read, listen, laugh, and build confidence with students. They’ve adapted as schools have changed, as programs have evolved, and as new generations of students have walked through classroom doors. What has remained constant is their commitment to being a steady, caring presence.
The Power of Long-Term Commitment
Long-term mentors are the backbone of our program. They model consistency, build trust, and show students what it means to keep showing up for someone else. Over 20 years, these mentors have helped students discover a love of reading, strengthen literacy skills, and—just as importantly—feel seen and supported by a trusted adult.
Their impact extends far beyond a single school year. Many students carry these relationships with them as foundational memories of encouragement and belief.
With Gratitude
To Rob, Drew, Robert, Dorrie, and Carol: thank you for the time you’ve given, the lives you’ve touched, and the example you’ve set for our entire mentoring community. Your dedication embodies the heart of Everybody Wins! Iowa, and we are so grateful to celebrate this milestone with you.
Here’s to 20+ years of reading together—and the many stories you’ve helped shape along the way.
