2026-27 Advancing Mentoring Excellent Training Schedule

1: Aligning Expectations and Effective Communication

Define mentoring and Northwestern’s Principles of Mentoring Excellence. Establish and communicate  boundaries, terms, structure, and goals. 

Friday, Oct. 2, 2026 

12:00-1:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026

10:00-11:30 a.m.

2: Fostering Independence and Promoting Professional Development  

Understand how mentors support the development of their mentees. Encourage mentees to establish a mentoring network.  

Friday, Oct. 30, 2026

12:00-1:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2026

3:00-4:30 p.m.

3: Assessing Understanding and Cultivating Ethical Behavior

Establish a framework for psychological safety in the mentoring relationship. Manage power dynamics and learn how to discuss ethical issues with mentees.

Friday, Jan. 15, 2027

1:30-3:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2027

3:00-4:30 p.m.

4: Mentoring Across Difference 

Articulate strategies to mentor across differences. ​Promote mutual understanding through dialogue built on empathy.

Friday, Feb. 26, 2027 12:00-1:30 p.m.

Thursday, Mar. 4, 2027

3:00-4:30 p.m.

5: Defining and Articulating Your Mentoring Philosophy and Plan 

Note: Completion of Sessions I-IV is a  prerequisite for this session

Construct a plan to enhance mentee understanding and growth. Create your own mentoring philosophy and plan.  

Wednesday, Apr. 7, 2027

12:00-1:30 p.m.

Monday, Apr. 12, 2027

9:00-10:30 a.m.

Elective: Mentoring Across Generations

Explore research on Generation Z experiences and expectations. Apply best practices for communication and boundaries across differences

Thursday, Feb. 4, 2027

12:00-1:30 p.m.

Elective: Responsible Mentoring with AI Everywhere

Explore the mentor's role in fostering responsible AI use and setting expectations. Examine real-world scenarios and develop practical strategies for guiding and using AI as mentors and academic leaders.

Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2027

9:00-10:30 a.m.