Div. 20 Mentoring Program

The purpose of the Div. 20 Mentoring Program is to provide early career psychologists and emerging scholars (e.g., graduate students) with guidance and advice from respected senior faculty, researchers and/or clinicians in the field of aging and human development. Mentoring is meant to help early career psychologists and emerging scholars develop goals and strategies for their research and/or clinical work; provide guidance in searching for research funding and/or establishing a clinical practice; help evaluate and enhance the quality of research and/or clinical work; provide guidance and suggestions in course development; offer advice on ethical issues; provide networking opportunities; and offer advice on service, especially professional and community.

The Div. 20 Mentoring Program is not meant to replace mentoring that takes place within the individual's school or university. Instead, by providing access to someone who is a recognized leader in the field, the Div. 20 Mentoring Program can facilitate interaction with a colleague who fully understands and can contribute to the research, teaching and/or clinical agenda of a junior person in the field.

Within the overall goals and objectives articulated above, the specific relationship between mentor and mentee will evolve depending on the degree of interaction. The exact content of the relationship, therefore, is left up to the mentor and the mentee.

Time Commitment

While regular interaction is desired, the relationship should not be burdensome on the mentor. The mentor and mentee should tell each other if too much or too little time is being spent on the relationship. Some mentors may decide to limit the number of mentees they accept, so potential mentees should first inquire about availability.

Matching of Mentors and Mentees

Mentors, who all have strong records in research, teaching, clinical work and/or outreach, and have agreed to volunteer their time, are listed below. When available, additional information is provided to help mentees choose an appropriate mentor. Emerging scholars and early career psychologists seeking the type of mentorship outlined in this program are encouraged to contact the faculty member of their choice and inquire about availability/fit. See a list of mentors, listed alphabetically.