Thank you to all who help us learn!
...How does one become nominated?
From what was posted above, it seems that the option to offer the title "mentor" is being reserved for those who actually already are, and have a proven track-record of, mentoring regardless of recognition.
I am guessing that those bestowing this title are not offering it as something to be earned, but more as a gift that is their sign of appreciation for work already being done--and probably for that which reduces the moderators' burdens instead of adding to them. I am also guessing that a detectable attempt to earn the title might disqualify a person from it. As many students can confirm, there is a difference between "
mentor", and "
respondent".
With regards to the mentors who have helped me through the years, they not only helped provide knowledge by answering my questions, but also taught or inspired enthusiasm for the subject-matter itself and for sharing it with others. In many cases I have seen a mentor fill not just the role of "instructor", but also the role of "instructor-trainer". (To clarify the term, in my region, an "instructor-trainer" teaches instructors whereas instructors teach students.)
My thanks to all who help the rest of us learn, whether or not they have an official title.
Thank you,