Overview

The Faculty Mentors Network is a multi-faceted program designed to support full-time faculty in the College of Communication, Information and Media, the College of Health, the College of Sciences and Humanities, the Miller College of Business, and the Teachers College at all career stages – whether new, mid-career, or senior – by fostering professional growth and a sense of community. Instrumental and social support is provided via interdepartmental mentoring, new hire mentoring, and mutual mentoring groups. The interdepartmental faculty mentoring program is designed to provide access to 1-on-1 mentoring to all full-time faculty throughout their careers.

 

Interdepartmental Faculty Mentoring

This program aims to match full-time faculty seeking career-related peer support (e.g., first time writing a book or teaching a study abroad course; an accountability partner for writing; seeking guidance on promotion) with another faculty member at the university.

Mentees should complete this application. Mentees are eligible for $100 in RIA funding for participating in the program during the 2025/26 academic year. Spaces are limited.

Interested interdepartmental mentors should complete this application. Mentors are eligible for $250 in RIA funds for their contribution to the Faculty Mentors Network during the 2025/26 academic year.

The College of Sciences & Humanities, College of Health, and College of Communication, Information, and Media, Teachers College, Miller College of Business, the Office of the Vice Provost for Research, and the Office of the Vice Provost for Academic Affairs are excited to announce an opportunity for faculty members to design and lead Mutual Mentoring Groups during the 2025-2026 academic year focused on promoting faculty well-being and advancing career development.

We are seeking proposals from CSH, CoH, CCIM, TC, and MCOB faculty that

  • focus on peer mentoring related to a shared interest or issue to nurture faculty well-being and/or career development.
  • emphasize learning, engagement in meaningful interactions, and mutual support to enhance networking and collaboration across departments.

We are seeking proposals that promote faculty career development and personal well-being related to one of the following topics:

  • Academic Leadership Development and/or Exploration
  • Resources for and/or community-building among non-tenure line and/or clinical/practice-oriented faculty
  • Teaching large classes

For details about program and required application materials, view the Mutual Mentoring Groups Application Info. Applications are due by Tuesday, April 28, 2025.

This Mentorship Agreement can be used as a conversation starter for mentors/mentees to help establish the goals and expectations of the partnership.

Ball State is committed to helping all new hires with their transition to the university. As stated in the Faculty and Professional Personnel Handbook, department chairs match all new hire, full-time faculty with a mentor within their department. 

Other resources for new faculty, including the New Faculty Academy and New Faculty Orientation, can be viewed here.