Leading The Way To Success: Perspectives Of Academic Leaders On Faculty Mentorship Practices

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2026

School

Education

Abstract

Academic leaders, such as college deans and department chairs, have a critical role in fostering a culture of faculty mentorship and leading the innovation of mentorship programs. However, scholarship on faculty mentorship in higher education remains largely focused on the experiences of mentors and mentees, with limited attention to leadership perspectives. To narrow this gap, this study examined academic leaders’ perspectives on faculty mentorship, including the limitations and advantages of existing mentorship models, prioritized goals and objectives, and strategies for enhancing mentorship programs. Utilizing a convergent mixed-methods design, survey and interview data were collected from the academic leadership at a large public research university. Findings highlighted the importance of innovative mentorship models, clear expectations, adequate training and resources, and sustained institutional support in developing effective mentorship programs. The study contributes to emerging scholarship on academic leaders’ roles in shaping effective faculty mentorship practices in higher education.

Publication Title

Mentoring and Tutoring Partnership in Learning

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