NW Valley Times

Two students, CJ Lundfelt and Jack Edlin, were seen walking down Lopes Way at Grand Canyon University, engaging in a lively discussion about their favorite sports teams. The pair was on their way to Chick-fil-A, a popular lunch spot on campus. CJ is part of the LOPES Academy, which offers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities an immersive university experience focused on academic, job, and social skills development.

Jack Edlin serves as CJ's peer mentor. A finance junior from Las Vegas, Jack is also involved in various campus activities such as being the finance director of TedXGrandCanyonUniversity and treasurer of the GCU Finance and Economics Club. His journey into mentorship began when he noticed a flyer seeking peer mentors for LOPES Academy.

The academy was established in 2021 with support from benefactors Don and Kim Cardon. It includes courses, internships, job training, and matching participants with student leaders like Jack who help them engage in college life.

Jack initially hesitated but soon realized that being a mentor meant being a friend. "I just treat them like everyone else is treated," he said. Over time, Jack developed strong connections with participants like Charlie Paparone.

Dr. Heidi Boldway, LOPES Academy director, praised Jack's natural ability to interact with participants: "His interaction helps them grow."

During a scavenger hunt activity designed for first-year students like CJ to explore the campus, Jack guided him through various locations including GCBC coffee shop and the Prayer Chapel.

Jack reflected on his role: "You can overcome these challenges by being a good listener." He believes this experience will benefit him in future professional settings where he may work alongside neurodivergent colleagues.

Program manager Courtney Patton noted that parents have observed positive impacts on their children's confidence due to interactions with peer mentors.

Jack has become lead peer mentor this year and appreciates how enthusiastic participants are about college life. As they reached Chick-fil-A for lunch, CJ expressed gratitude towards Jack: "You're a good guy."