ATHENA Faculty Mentoring Circles

Welcome to the ATHENA Mentoring Circles

The ATHENA Peer/Near-Peer Mentoring Circles at the University of Louisville are designed to create a supportive environment where faculty members can collaborate, share insights, and tackle challenges together. Inspired by the successful peer group model in Ellen Daniell’s Every Other Thursday: Stories and Strategies from Successful Women Scientists, our circles adopt key elements of the "A Group of One's Own" chapter to foster mentorship, coaching, and networking.

What Are Mentoring Circles?

Our ATHENA Circles are peer-driven groups where faculty members come together to share experiences, provide feedback, and develop strategies to advance their professional growth. These circles blend the best aspects of traditional mentoring with peer coaching, tailored to fit the unique context of UofL. Through a combination of virtual and in-person meetings, members have the opportunity to connect, learn, and grow in a supportive, collaborative space.

How Do the Meetings Work?


Each Mentoring Circle meeting follows a structured format that maximizes the value of your time and efforts:

  1. Positive Affirmations (5 minutes):
    The meeting begins with a round of positive affirmations, where each member shares something good happening in their life. This could be a personal milestone, a professional achievement, or something they’re grateful for.

  2. Group Work (60-75 minutes):
    The core of the meeting is the Group Work session, where members take turns leading the conversation. If you have a challenge to address, this is your time to present the issue. Here’s how it works:

    • Articulate the Challenge: Clearly state the problem you're facing and share your goals for the discussion.
    • Clarify Your Needs: Specify the type of support you're seeking – advice, new perspectives, or guidance.
    • Active Listening: Group members engage in active listening, asking clarifying questions to understand your situation better.
    • Encourage Personal Agency: Instead of jumping straight into solutions, the group helps you identify actionable next steps.
    • Offer Solutions (if requested): Only if explicitly asked, members may offer specific solutions to the issue at hand.
    • Create a Contract: The meeting ends with you making a commitment to follow up on the actions discussed.

  3. Strokes (2 minutes):
    The meeting concludes with “Strokes” – a round of positive observations or praise based on the contributions shared during the meeting. This is a time to acknowledge and appreciate each other’s input.

The Benefits of Participating in ATHENA Mentoring Circles


Participation in the ATHENA Mentoring Circles has proven to offer significant benefits to faculty members, including:

  • Career Advancement: Mentoring circles can open doors for professional growth by providing insights and support for navigating challenges.
  • Improved Problem-Solving: Through collaboration and collective brainstorming, members develop better problem-solving skills.
  • Empowerment: The circles help participants gain confidence and clarity in making decisions and taking action.
  • Reduced Isolation: By building strong, supportive connections, participants experience less isolation and greater camaraderie within their academic community.
  • A Sense of Belonging: The circles foster a deeper sense of inclusion and engagement within the university.

Why Join the ATHENA Mentoring Circles?

  • Build Relationships: Create meaningful, professional connections with peers who understand the challenges and opportunities you face.
  • Gain New Perspectives: Leverage the knowledge and experiences of others to solve problems and expand your thinking.
  • Enhance Your Professional Development: Take advantage of this space to grow both personally and professionally.
  • Support Others: Help your colleagues thrive by contributing to their success, creating a collaborative and enriching environment.

By joining the ATHENA Mentoring Circles, you become part of a community that is dedicated to mutual support, growth, and success. Whether you're seeking advice, mentorship, or a platform to share your own expertise, our circles offer a space to connect, learn, and thrive.

 

Join Us Today!
Sign up for an upcoming session and start benefiting from the collaborative power of peer mentoring today!

 ATHENA Faculty Mentoring Circle Training