
The Staff Mentorship Program is a collaborative effort between the Department of Human Resources and the Office of Institutional Diversity, which began as a pilot program in 2007. Due to its success, the program will continue as one of several staff professional development opportunities.
As a formal voluntary program, the Staff Mentorship Program is based on the premise that mentoring in the workplace is a one-to-one relationship where the mentor is viewed as a seasoned employee and the mentee as a less experienced staff member. A successful relationship is one in which the mentor has an opportunity to share knowledge and experience through interactive guidance and the mentee has an opportunity to engage in active “learning.” The mentor-mentee relationship is based on openness, respect, and trust. Confidentiality is a key element in the success of the relationship.
Mentoring has long been shown to foster learning and self-improvement for employees at all levels. The reasons for becoming involved in a mentoring relationship as either a mentee or a mentor are numerous and may vary depending on individual circumstances. As a participant of the Staff Mentorship Program, mentees receive general information from a knowledgeable mentor who can advise on professional development, recreational/social, and volunteer opportunities; introduce the mentee to broader networks; introduce the mentee to available campus and community resources; support and encourage the mentee’s professional success and development; and listen actively to the mentee’s questions and thoughts for deeper reflection
Mentors and mentees will receive training. The Department of Human Resources will conduct an ongoing assessment of the Staff Mentorship Program, including a short assessment from both the mentors and mentees. The assessment will be available online.
Mentors must be nominated by their respective member of the Academic and Administrative Leadership Group. Mentees may self-select by completing the online application form. Staff interested in participating in the Staff Mentorship Program can download the appropriate form using the links below.