Overview
The Faculty Mentors Network is a university-wide program designed to support full-time TL and NTL faculty at BSU – new, mid-career, or senior – by fostering professional growth and a sense of community. Instrumental and social support is provided via 1-on-1 interdepartmental mentoring. Faculty may choose to join the program if they are (for example):
Examples:
- Writing a book
- Writing a grant
- Pursuing leadership postions
- Community engagement
Examples:
- Working towards promotion
- Setting up a research lab
- Designing a new program
Examples:
- Preparing for parental leave
- Classroom challenges
Examples:
- Study abroad
- Immersive learning
- Grant writing
This program is intentionally designed to respond to faculty needs and supplement other mentoring opportunities available to faculty on campus. These include (but not limited to) first-year faculty departmental mentoring and peer mentoring available via faculty learning communities, the New Faculty Academy and the Sponsored Projects Administration Fellows Program. The Faculty Mentors Network was made possible through years-long efforts, including activities conducted as part of the 2019 NSF iChange initiative (e.g., a Faculty Learning Community, a university-wide survey about faculty mentoring needs).
Mentee Application
Interested Mentees should complete this application. Mentees may be eligible for $100 in RIA funding for participating in the program during the 2026/27 academic year. Spaces are limited.
Mentor Application
Mentors are matched with mentees based on the combination of mentee’s desired goals and mentor’s interests and skillsets. This is a great opportunity for individuals seeking to build their network and meet other faculty across the university. Additionally, previous mentors reported enjoying the experience and learning from their mentee.
Interested interdepartmental mentors should complete this application. If matched for the program, mentors will be required to complete a 1-hour, online training program. Mentors are eligible for $250 in RIA funds for their contribution to the Faculty Mentors Network during the 2026/27 academic year.