The Brock Mentorship Program creates a space for employees to expand connections and explore different areas of the University. Career and Curriculum Development Manager Andrew Bassingthwaighte (left) and Student Talent Development Specialist Emily Rollo (right) have both previously participated in the program.The Brock University Mentorship Program returns this fall, offering faculty and staff the opportunity to build meaningful professional relationships that support growth and development.
Running from September to April, the program invites employees to share their expertise as a mentor or gain new insights and perspectives as amentee.
The program is designed to be flexible and personalized, allowing participants to focus on specific goals or seek general guidance. Both mentors and mentees benefit through strengthened skills, increased confidence and expanded connections.
Learning and Development Specialist Samantha Vandermolen notes that employee feedback consistently highlights a desire for broader connections across the institution.
“The Mentorship Program creates space for people to connect who may have not otherwise crossed paths in their day-to-day work,” she says. “These new relationships can spark fresh ideas, help employees explore different areas of the University and support them in working toward their goals.”
Applications for the 2026-27 cohort are currently open and will be accepted through Wednesday, July 15. Successful matches will be communicated in August.
Before the program begins, both mentors and mentees will attend an orientation session. Each pair will then meet monthly, either in-person or virtually, to share challenges, goals and encouragement and to support one another’s professional growth.
Participants also have access to a range of resources, including goal setting and reflection guides, plus a dedicated Microsoft Teams channel featuring monthly prompts, tools and peer support.
The program is open to all eligible Brock faculty and staff. Those interested must be actively employed for the duration of the program and commit to monthly meetings throughout the academic year.
Vandermolen encourages both new and returning participants to get involved.
“For some, the idea of being a mentor or mentee can feel intimidating, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience,” she says. “Taking that step shows courage and is a meaningful investment in personal and professional growth. Leadership exists at every level — you never know the impact you might have on others.”
For more information on the program and the application form, visit the Learning and Development SharePoint site. Questions can be directed to [email protected]
