Southern is committed to innovative teaching strategies and to scholarship and creative activity that produces knowledge, refreshes faculty expertise, and amplifies teaching effectiveness. In keeping with that mission, the Faculty Mentoring Program aims to foster the professional development of all faculty through the guidance, encouragement and support of colleagues of all levels and from all disciplines and schools across the University so they may be successful and productive members of the community. 

We currently offer two formats of mentoring for faculty.

Individual Mentoring

All first-, second-, and third-year faculty members have an opportunity to have an individual mentor from outside your department. If you would like one, please complete the Mentee Profile Form. We will pair you with a mentor we think might be the best fit. You will then get connected with your mentor and develop a plan for the academic year. The advantage of having an individual faculty mentor while navigating your initial years at Southern. An individual mentor, especially from outside one’s department, can be an unbiased resource. Mentees reap the benefits of having an individual mentor by keeping an open mind, being willing to learn and ask questions, setting goals, and remaining committed to their professional growth.

Want some tips for one-on-one mentoring? Watch this video with advice from mentor Marie McDaniel who teaches in History and directs Southern's Writing Center. 

If you are beyond your third year teaching at Southern and would like to serve as a mentor, please complete the Mentor Profile Form. 

Faculty Mentoring Circle

The Circle is a wonderful opportunity for colleagues to mentor and be mentored, regardless of status. The group six times over the course of the academic year (three gatherings a semester) virtually (for now) through video conferencing. Each gathering features discussions facilitated by faculty who are well-versed on themes generated by Circle members. The Circle allows an opportunity to connect with colleagues from across the campus and disciplines and schools.

The Faculty Mentoring Circle meets formally six times over the course of the academic year (three gatherings a semester) in a hybrid format--virtually and in-person in Buley Library, Room 219 (the Faculty Development Conference Room and Lounge). Each gathering features discussions facilitated by faculty and/or staff who are informative on themes generated by Circle members. Circle members are also encouraged to be in contact outside of on-campus meetings. 

Spring 2023 Schedule

February 15 -- Women in Academia

March 22 -- Grant Writing Tips

April TBD

Please e-mail Jennifer Hudson at hudsonj1@southernct.edu if you would like an individual mentor, would like to serve as an individual mentor, or would like to join the Faculty Mentoring Circle.