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Community Event Β· Halcyon True North

TRUE NORTH
MENTORSHIP NIGHT

A free community gathering where students meet real mentors β€” professionals, graduates, and community leaders who have walked the path and want to help others find theirs.

πŸ“… October 8, 2026 Β· 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
πŸ“ IHOP Β· 10 Simpson Lane, Fredericksburg, VA 22406
🎟️ Free Admission
Let Us Know You’re Coming β†’

WHAT TO EXPECT

πŸŽ“
College Guidance

Application tips, choosing the right school β€” real answers from people who’ve been there.

πŸ’Ό
Career Conversations

One-on-one time with professionals across industries β€” ask anything.

πŸ“š
Scholarship Resources

Learn about the True North Scholarship Fund and other funding opportunities.

πŸ’¬
Open Q&A

Honest conversations in a welcoming, low-pressure space. No scripts.

MEET YOUR MENTORS

Professionals and counselors from education, government, technology, military, science, finance, and nonprofit leadership β€” all here for one evening to talk with you.

Education Leadership
Dr. Gary E. Maestas
Educational Strategist & Former Superintendent

With 40+ years in public education and over 25 years in district and school administration, Dr. Maestas has served as a superintendent and now helps school districts nationwide build capacity and achieve lasting success.

Education Leadership
Ruby Maestas
Principal, Carver Elementary School

A 28-year veteran educator and 18-year principal, Ruby Maestas leads with inclusion and community at the center β€” building strong partnerships with students, families, and staff so every child can thrive.

Science & Healthcare
Bernadette Esquibel ChΓ‘vez
Educator Β· Scientist Β· Licensed EMT Paramedic

From fisheries biologist with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to master science teacher to licensed paramedic β€” Bernadette’s career proves that curiosity and courage can open doors no job board could predict.

Finance & Tourism
April Perez
Director of Finance, Visit Colorado Springs

April leads finance for one of Colorado’s top destination organizations β€” and her path there included wintering in Antarctica, diving the Great Barrier Reef, and exploring New Zealand. She’s proof that curiosity and adventure can lead to a meaningful career.

Military & Federal
Bob Crowley
Retired U.S. Army Colonel Β· Co-Founder, Halcyon Group International

With 28+ years of military service and a second career building a federal contracting firm that works with the State Department, Defense Department, and FBI, Bob brings a rare perspective on leadership, service, and entrepreneurship.

Technology & Government
Mentor Coming Soon
Technology Leader Coming Soon

Mentor Bio Coming Soon.

Leadership & Entrepreneurship
Catherine Dunlap-Esquibel
President, Halcyon Group International Β· Founder, Halcyon True North

Catherine founded Halcyon True North because she believes every student deserves a clear path forward β€” regardless of where they start. As president of Halcyon Group International, a Woman-Owned Small Business, she brings a leader’s perspective on building something meaningful from the ground up.

College Counseling
Stafford County High School Counselors
School Counselors, Stafford County Public Schools

Your school counselors are among your most valuable resources for college planning, scholarship guidance, and navigating what comes next. Come ready with your questions β€” they’re here for you.

πŸ™‹ COME AS A STUDENT IF…

βœ“High school students planning for college
βœ“College students navigating their path
βœ“First-generation college students & families
βœ“Anyone seeking guidance on career direction
βœ“Students who have faced financial barriers
βœ“Young people who just need someone to talk to

🀝 VOLUNTEER AS A MENTOR IF…

βœ“College graduates & professionals
βœ“Educators & community leaders
βœ“Business owners & entrepreneurs
βœ“First-gen graduates who get it
βœ“Anyone in a skilled trade or craft
βœ“Anyone with a story worth sharing
πŸ“§ Reach out to volunteer
Available at the Event
True North Scholarship Table

Application guidance on-site

Book Drive Table

Free educational materials

College Planning Resources

Worksheets & guides to take home