Program Overview

The True Owls Mentoring Program is a 6-month professional development initiative designed to foster a mentoring culture and support the vision of becoming a thriving learning organization. The program pairs employees who are seeking professional growth with experienced leaders and mentors, offering valuable opportunities for learning, career development, and cross-departmental experience.

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How It Works

Mentoring Model: The True Owls Mentoring Program utilizes a one-on-one mentoring approach to encourage deep and meaningful connections. Each mentoring relationship is designed to last for (6) months, allowing participants to engage in focused career and personal development discussions.

 

  • Kickoff Meeting: The program begins with a kickoff meeting where mentors and mentees receive training and an overview of the program's goals and expectations.
  • Monthly Meetings: Mentor pairs are expected to meet at least once a month to discuss program goals, progress, and any relevant topics. The schedule and frequency of these meetings are flexible, allowing mentor pairs to tailor them to their needs.
  • Rotational Experience: Each mentee will rotate through two departments that report to the Vice Provost, Sheb True. This rotation involves approximately (8) hours in each department, providing mentees with a broad understanding of different areas within the organization. The rotation schedule is determined collaboratively by the mentor and mentee pair.
  • Vice Provost Meeting: As part of the program, each mentee will have the opportunity to meet with the Vice Provost to discuss their development and experiences within the program. 
  • Full Cohort Trainings: Several full cohort trainings will be scheduled throughout the program to provide additional learning opportunities and reinforce key concepts. (Dates to be announced.)
  • Check-In Calls: Regular check-in calls will be held with all mentors and mentees to share progress, best practices, and address any issues or concerns that may arise.
  • Mock Interviews: Mentees will participate in mock interview panels to receive training and feedback on interviewing for higher-level positions, helping them to prepare for future career opportunities. 

A Learning Partnership

The True Owls Mentoring Program is based on the idea that both mentors and mentees can grow and learn from each other. Participants work together to set and reach goals, helping each other along the way. The program supports personal career growth while also benefiting the organization as a whole. 
 
This program aims to empower staff, strengthen leadership skills, and create a supportive space for continuous professional development. 

Important Dates and Deadlines

In addition to the training provided in the kickoff meeting, we will have several full cohort trainings throughout the program. We will also have check-in calls during the 6-month program for each group (i.e., all Mentors, all Mentees) to share progress, best practices and discuss issues/concerns. In addition, we will have mock interview panels with each mentee to provide training and feedback on how to interview for higher level positions.

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