The UNL Staff Mentorship Program is a journey of growth and learning. Running from September to May each year, this program is designed to bridge the gap between experience and potential. By connecting with our seasoned staff and esteemed retirees, you’ll gain invaluable insights, guidance, and support tailored to your professional and personal development.
Our mentors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, eager to share their wisdom and help you navigate your career path with confidence. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, explore new opportunities, or gain a fresh perspective, this program offers a unique chance to learn from those who have walked the path before you.
Is mentorship for me?
- Are you a newly hired (0-3 years) employee wanting to learn more about the university or higher education?
- Do you want to improve your job effectiveness or find a path to advance to a new one?
- Are you a supervisor wanting to develop your effectiveness as a people leader?
If you answered "yes" to any of the above, you should take the next step and apply!
Could I be a mentor?
- Have you worked at the university for at least five year and know a lot about the university or higher education?
- Are you skilled at your job and have had experience advancing to a new one?
- Are you an experienced supervisor who is an effective people leader?
If you have a desire to help another person reach their potential and answered “yes” to any of the above, you should apply.
2024-25 Program
Apply before Friday, September 6, 2024, for the Staff Mentorship Program.
Time Commitment
The application process begins in August and mentor pairs are announced in September. All participants must attend a three-hour program orientation in September and a one-hour wrap-up event in the spring of the following year. It is recommended mentor pairs meet at least once per month during the program; however, discretion is given to pairs to set their own meeting times and cadence. You will also spend time in between mentoring sessions learning about and working on the desired new behaviors or concepts.
Guidance & Support Provided
Strong training and support resources are provided to all participants to help them navigate the mentorship relationship. You will receive an in-depth orientation on how to be a good participant as part of the program orientation. Each pair will also receive a resource guide that includes extensive resources, such as how to prepare for mentorship sessions, how to set goals for the mentorship experience, a sample meeting agenda, and more.
In addition, the program coordinator is available throughout the year to assist you with questions or concerns.
Qualifications to apply
Any full-time (temporary or permanent) staff member (or retiree) in good standing with your supervisor's consent.
How will my progress be evaluated?
We encourage you to approach this program with curiosity and openness, and to fully engage in the conversations and experiences that will shape your growth. Individual goals are set and tracked between the mentoring pairs. You can use these goals and progress as part of your annual performance evaluation. All participants will complete a mid- and end-of-program evaluation of their mentoring relationship and the mentoring program.
Benefits of participating in a mentorship program
Benefits to Proteges
- Learning and growth
- Readiness for career advancement
- Expanded network
- Subject matter expertise
- Career guidance
- Institutional knowledge
- Inspiration and encouragement
Benefits to Mentors
- Leadership skills
- Service or fulfillment
- Transfer of institutional knowledge
- Share subject matter expertise
- Expanded network
- Interpersonal skills
- New perspectives
Benefits to the university
- Employee/leader development
- Employee retention
- Fosters inclusive excellence
- Stronger organizational culture
- Recruitment tool
- Transfer of institutional knowledge
"My mentor helped me brainstorm ways to handle a challenging employee situation. Her advice was invaluable."
~Megan McMasters
"It is a great experience for growth - even on the mentor side. It's a chance to serve the campus community in a meaningful way, build new relationships, see new parts of campus, and learn more about yourself."
~Joy Eakin
Why we value mentorship
N2025 Aim: Prioritize participation and professional development for all Nebraska students, staff, and faculty
Strategy: Develop and enhance structures for all faculty, post-doctoral fellows, staff, and students to have access to a mentor or advisors. Establish professional development around mentoring and reward effective mentorship of faculty, post-doctoral fellows, staff and students.
Expectation: Mentor or advisor provided for all faculty, post-doctoral fellows, staff, and students. Mentorship incentives established and awarded.
Target: All faculty, post-doctoral fellows, staff and students have a mentor or advisor and all evaluations include reporting of mentorship activities.