L. Patrick Mellon Mentorship Program

Program Benefits

“Anyone who gets to the top of a field doesn’t get there by him or herself. And once there, you should not forget the responsibility to help others join you.” — Johnetta B. Cole

What is mentoring?

The mentoring process is one in which a mentor and a mentee embark upon a journey of reflection, discovery, sharing of ideas, and skills development in support of the mentee’s professional growth. The mentoring relationship involves free, earnest, and frank collaboration in an atmosphere of confidentiality and mutual respect. Mentoring is a way of turning dedicated professionals into leaders!

The classic notion of mentoring is pairing a senior person with a younger or inexperienced individual within an industry or company. Mentors provide or create a variety of opportunities and experiences to help mentees expand their repertoire to further their careers.

In the 21st Century, the approach to mentoring in a fast-past, ever changing global industry is that mentors assume the role of transformational leader. By doing so, the mentor influences change in order to achieve developmental goals agreed upon by both mentor and mentee that meet the needs of the mentee.

The Mentoring Process

The mentoring process is a relationship in which a mentor and a mentee embark upon a journey of sharing ideas and developing skills in support of success. The goal is to empower mentees by enhancing their skills and helping them strategically manage their careers.

Who are Mentors?

Committed, seasoned industry professionals are recruited to serve as mentors to NAMIC members for a nine-month period. In these one-on-one sessions, mentors provide support, guidance, and career advice on an as-needed basis. A time commitment of up to two hours per month is expected of mentors.

Why participate?

Mentoring is a win-win for all who are involved in the processÑmentee, mentor, the companies in which they are employed, and our industry as a whole. Most importantly, mentees learn to take ownership of their careers, therefore ensuring their growth, commitment, and career advancement.

Mentoring can effect change faster than traditional forms of training because it meets the immediate needs of the mentee. The process provides the mentee the opportunity to receive immediate feedback, guidance and incite that serves that allows the mentee to apply and improve performance.

Making a Difference Through Mentoring

Quotes from Program Participants

“I have served as a mentor and mentee and it was extremely gratifying from both perspectives. As a mentee, I had a tremendous experience with a very senior-ranking executive that helped make a difference in my career. As a mentor, I received a lot of fulfillment in knowing that I was giving someone insight into their career that they may not have received from anyone else. In the end, I found that information makes a difference.”

Douglas V. Holloway
President
Network Distribution and Affiliate Relations
Universal Television

“I did not anticipate the impact of the L. Patrick Mellon Mentorship opportunity until I was paired with Decker Anstrom, one of our industry's most respected leaders. Together, we outlined a plan of action that helped me to develop a myriad of soft skills that are critical to breaking through to the ranks of senior management. The results have been significant and measurable. I am confident that when I reflect upon my career, the NAMIC mentoring experience will be a cherished highlight.”

Marty Maldonado
Director, Eastern Division
Field Sales & Marketing
ESPN, Inc.

Web Application Developed By: Sandy Pond Consulting

Contact NAMIC