Men, Women, and People of Character, Honor, and Ambition (MOCHA, WOCHA, and POCHA) are exciting initiatives designed to help all students build confidence, connect with a supportive community, and develop the skills they need to succeed in school, life, and future careers. These programs began at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) with a mission to create opportunities for students to grow as leaders, learn from mentors, and prepare for bright futures.
At the core of MOCHA/WOCHA/POCHA are key values such as mentorship, leadership development, and real-world application of these skills in diverse situations. One of the most exciting parts of the program is the partnership with Dale Carnegie, a world-renowned organization that helps people strengthen their communication and leadership skills to succeed in a global workforce. What started at RIT has now expanded to students in Missouri, Virginia, and even middle and high schools—bringing these life-changing experiences to even more young leaders.
Understanding MOCHA/WOCHA/POCHA
The MOCHA, WOCHA, and POCHA programs are dynamic one-year initiatives open to all undergraduate, high, and middle school students. These programs are built to cultivate growth, connection, and success through a comprehensive and engaging experience.
Participants will engage in monthly workshops led by an inspiring mix of faculty, staff, alumni, community leaders, and accomplished professionals. These workshops focus on equipping students with valuable skills and insights while creating spaces for meaningful dialogue and learning. Beyond workshops, students will build lasting connections through mentor/mentee experiences and group outings that will foster a strong sense of community and belonging. Additionally, wellness activities are integrated to prioritize and promote students’ mental and physical well-being.
The five pillars of MOCHA/WOCHA/POCHA are:
Ambition
Achievement
Integrity
Service
Health & Wellness
Students in grades 7-12 in the Jefferson District and Central VA who are interested in participating can contact Dr. Joshua Epps, MOCHA/WOCHA Program Manager, at [email protected], with questions.
Benefits of Participation for High School/Middle School Students:
- Stipends for providing mentoring (high school).
- Opportunities to earn a Chromebook or professional attire, based on meeting participation expectations.
- Access to leadership development workshops.
- Opportunities to forge relationships while making a positive impact on the greater Charlottesville Community through service.
- Outings/trip costs covered by the program.
University of Virginia students can contact Dr. Joshua Epps, MOCHA/WOCHA/POCHA Program Manager, at ([email protected]) with questions regarding the program's application process.
Benefits of Participation for Undergraduate Students:
- Stipends and other incentives for program completion and providing mentoring.
- Opportunities to earn professional attire, based on meeting participation expectations.
- Access to executive leadership development workshops and mentor trainings.
- Opportunities to forge relationships while making a positive impact on the greater Charlottesville Community through service.
- Outings/trip costs covered by the program.
Are you interested in becoming a Virtual Mentor for MOCHA/WOCHA/POCHA? Please fill out this form.
FAQs
- What can students gain from this experience?
Through the monthly workshops, students will develop a set of core competencies designed to empower their personal and professional growth. These include:
Ambition: Building perseverance and career aspirations.
Achievement: Developing skills like priority setting and effective time management.
Integrity: Emphasizing ethics and strong values.
Service: Fostering compassion and active listening.
Health & Wellness: Promoting work-life balance and conflict resolution.
Beyond skill development, students will gain a supportive cohort of peers and mentorship from inspirational community leaders. Additionally, MOCHA/WOCHA/POCHA members who complete the program and meet its goals will receive professional attire at the end of the program.
MOCHA/WOCHA/POCHA is dedicated to providing the tools necessary for the development of successful leaders. This initiative fosters an environment focused on growth and leadership, offering mentorship and life-changing experiences to equip participants with the tools for personal, professional, and academic success.
- What will participation in the program cost students?
MOCHA/WOCHA/POCHA membership is free for students. The Division for Community Engagement and Equal Opportunity covers the cost of both initiatives through its budget and fundraising efforts.
- Where will the monthly workshops be held?
The monthly workshops will take place both on and off school property as well as virtually.
