Lynn Burks, Chair of AAUA's Professional Development Committee, and committee members Matt Roche and Alisa Fleming discuss the launching of the "AAUA Mentoring Community" program at the AAUA Conference, which will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana, from October 14 to 16.
 
 The year-long "Mentoring Community" program aimed at "Creating powerful peer-to-peer relationships to enhance the skills and knowledge of current and aspiring administrators regarding their respective positions/titles."  

The program was carefully designed to fill a gap in leadership development, especially for entry- and mid-level leaders in higher education. Burks notes that by focusing on mentoring, the program aims to address the critical need for succession planning for all levels of leadership in higher education. It will help prepare the next generation of leaders, ensuring a smooth transition of knowledge and skills within academic institutions.

The program consists of two main components:

Mentoring Communities: Debuting at the conference within a two-hour session, these communities will provide a space for attendees to connect, learn, and discuss relevant topics in education. Monthly check-ins will follow the conference to encourage ongoing conversation and growth. Mentoring Community Topics include; 

- Cultivating tomorrow's competencies

- Influencing without authority

- Inclusive well-being in the workplace

- Visionary academic leadership

- Fostering resilience in Generation Z