"As a mentee in the new mentoring program last year, I had a very positive experience. My mentor, Vikki Valentine, guided me, gave me wonderful advice and ideas, and was a wonderful sounding post for me to bounce ideas off....She showed that she truly cared for me and my success at Loyola...."
-Karin Murray, former LUC & ME Mentee
- Why was the program created?
Loyola University Chicago has a history of providing a positive and supportive environment for its employees. The Loyola Promise, "preparing people to lead extraordinary lives" applies to our staff and faculty as well as students. Recently, the Chicago Tribune recognized Loyola as one of "Chicago's Top Places to Work."
The goal of Loyola University Chicago Mentoring Experience is to assist new hires in becoming acclimated to the University. Each new hire will be matched with an experienced staff member, who will act as a coach and guide for a six-month period. LUC & ME is designed to create relationships throughout Loyola that foster a sense of community and commitment to the University's goals and mission.
- When did the program start?
In January of 2010, the Staff Council and the Training and Development Department piloted a mentoring program for newly hired staff. The goal of the program was to help newly hired employees become acclimated to the University. Feedback from participants was so positive that the program has been formally launched in February 2011.
- Who can participate?
LUC & ME is a voluntary program, for newly hired employees who will benefit from the support of an experienced staff.
Mentees will be matched with mentors who are full-time staff employees in good standing and typically have two years of work experience at Loyola.
Potential mentors should have a good working knowledge of University policies and procedures.
In addition, mentors should also be dedicated to supporting and to encouraging new staff members, building the University community, and fostering Loyola's mission.
- What type of time commitment is required?
LUC & ME is a six-month program that begins in February and ends in August. A second program cycle will begin in August 2012 and end in January 2013. During this period mentors and mentees are expected to devote approximately one hour per week to the program. This amount of time will help ensure a successful partnership. In addition to mentor/mentee meetings, the program provides training sessions, social gatherings and other events to help mentors and mentees excel as mentoring partners.
The program offers regular scheduled workshops and other activities to support the matched pairs. While participation in these activities is not required, it's recommended that mentors and mentees take advantage of these activities, as they help create effective partnerships.
- I’ve never been a mentor or mentee. What support can I expect from LUC & ME?
Please visit our Resources page for information.
- Can I pick my own mentor/mentee?
LUC & ME is a formal mentoring program, meaning that the pairs are assigned by a "matching committee." This committee consists of a group of Loyola staff members volunteers who have agreed to assist with the mentoring program. The program coordinator is available to speak with staff members about their particular matching assignments.
- How does the mentoring relationship begin?
Here are some of the key items that occur at the beginning of the mentoring relationship:
- The mentor and mentee attend an opening event which also includes a review of the program, a mentor/mentor training, and a brief orientation.
- The mentor and mentee typically schedule a first meeting, and then establish a regular, standing meeting time each month.
- Initial meetings provide an opportunity for mentors/mentees to learn more about one another.
- Establishing a solid relationship is important to the success of the mentoring process, specific areas of discussion are often identified at this point.
- Newly hired employees may want to learn more about Loyola's history and mission, or about ways to create a network of friends, business partners and associates.
- Goals are mutually established by the mentee and mentor and an action plan is developed for charting progress.
- Action plans are updated during regular mentoring meetings and progress made on plans, which might include various actions, tasks, and activities taken, are noted and assessed.
- What are the characteristics of a good mentor/mentee?
- Successful mentors must have the desire and willingness to share skills, knowledge, and experiences.
- Mentors must also have the time and the energy to develop meaningful relationships with mentees that add value.
- Mentors are also expected to provide solid guidance, information and constructive feedback.
- Similarly, successful mentees need the time and energy to develop a mentoring relationship.
- Mentees should be willing to not only learn, but to contribute knowledge and skills to the mentoring relationship.
- Are the workshops mandatory?
Although the LUC & ME workshops are not mandatory, we do recommend that mentors and mentees take advantage of the activities offered, as they are a helpful resource in facilitating meeting with your mentor/mentee.
- Who should I contact with questions about the program?
Please contact the Program Coordinator , Tori New, at 773-508-3964 with questions you might have about the program.