2019 is here – and to kick the year off, January is #NationalMentoringMonth, and January 31 is Thank Your Mentor Day.
Take a moment. When you read the word mentor, what comes to mind? A person who is invested in you, your growth and professional development? A trusted confidante? A role model, leader, or person who inspires? Mentors can be our champions, our teachers, and our sounding boards.
Now, when you read the word mentee, what comes to mind? Someone eager to learn? To grow? A commitment? A way to #PayItForward?
As Research Development professionals, we are surrounded by opportunities to mentor and be mentored. As an organization, NORDP is invested in the value of mentoring as a reciprocal relationship, where both parties learn, grow and benefit. The NORDP Mentoring Committee works year-round to implement an annual mentoring program, matching mentors, mentees and peer mentors. Then throughout the year, the committee offers webinars, tools, and support. Applications for the program open in spring, and matches are made prior to the Conference. Membership in the Mentoring Committee is always open, and is a great place to volunteer with NORDP. We role model peer mentoring within the committee, and are committed to providing resources to all of NORDP membership.
One final question to reflect on: Are you ready? Become a mentor. Become a mentee. Step into the role of a peer mentor. You are needed. Necessary. And have so much to offer.
We encourage you to take a few minutes to thank the mentors in your life. And, while you are at it, thank your mentees, too. And those people you consider peer mentors. Because, #NORPDMentoringMatters
Contributed by the NORDP Mentoring Committee
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