| Mentoring |
 Mentoring
WGR supports mentoring at all career levels—including peer to peer—and offers formal and informal opportunities for members to connect with mentors. Check the WGR calendar for upcoming opportunities.
Mentoring ProgramIn addition to the many informal opportunities for WGR members to connect with one another and share career advice, WGR is pleased to offer a formal members-only mentoring program. Once a year, we match about 40 mentees with a personally selected mentor for a five-month program which runs from spring to fall. Whether you are seeking guidance, prepared to guide, or looking for a peer to explore ideas with, the mentorship program is designed to fit your needs. WGR provides a framework for discussions and will share resources and materials you can use throughout your discussions. To participate, complete the mentee or mentor form below. Your answers will help us find your best match.
2025 mentoring applications are now open! Applications due April 14th, 2025.
Mentor Application: Click Here Mentee Application: Click Here
A Mentoring Story"I’m so fortunate to have several informal mentors who have helped me in my career—from securing my first paying job on Capitol Hill to teaching me how to be a passionate and effective education advocate. One of the reasons that I pursued leadership positions with WGR is to give back to women in the field, so I didn’t think twice about applying to be a mentor in the WGR Mentoring Program. This year, I was paired with a bright, dynamic woman who shared my love of education. When we first met, a new job wasn’t on her radar, but we talked about what excites us about our work and the diverse field of government relations. I shared my perspective as a longtime association professional and my insights about how some organizations focus more on policy development versus lobbying or grassroots advocacy. During our conversations it became clear that my mentee wanted to make a job change and soon had her eye on a “dream organization.” I helped connect her with someone at the organization and we soon learned that the organization was hiring! I reviewed her resume and gave her some suggestions going into the first interview. She got the job! It felt amazing to share her in success and I can’t wait to see what great things she accomplishes as an advocate for children."
- Amanda Karhuse What is required of mentor and mentee partners:
What WGR will do:
Other Opportunities to ConnectMentor DinnersMentor Dinners bring professional women together to discuss what life is like as a female in the field of government relations. Held semi-annually, the dinners are limited to 20 participants, with one or two experienced industry professionals
serving as the evening’s hosts. The hosts guide conversation, provide perspectives and share their own life experiences. If you are interested in serving as a host, please contact the office. Pre-Event Meet-UpsHave you met someone at event recently who inspired you, made you laugh or the conversation just clicked? WGR encourages everyone to connect with members on their own by grabbing lunch or coffee – or attending an event together. Some great
events for the “buddy system” include: happy hours, wine tasting, congressional reception and the end of year celebration. Just do it! Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN)Interested in mentoring the next generation of young leaders? WGR and PLEN have a shared interest in advancing leadership for women across a broad spectrum of professional fields. Women with all levels of experience are welcome to participate in PLEN programs as mentors including lunch roundtables, networking receptions, panel discussions and resume reviews. Visit their website or contact Dr. Nancy Stalowski for more information.
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