AAC’s Mentorship Program connects prospective and emerging arts administrators of color with experienced mentors, fostering meaningful relationships that support career growth and professional development.

Through personalized mentor-mentee pairings, participants receive guidance, expand their networks, and refine their career goals.

Mentors serve as role models, offering insight, advice, and encouragement, while mentees engage in both structured and informal learning experiences. This includes one-on-one meetings with their mentor and quarterly cohort gatherings, where participants connect in breakout rooms to share reflections, discuss challenges, and engage with guest speakers tailored to their interests. While this program is not an employment placement initiative, it provides a supportive space for mentees to navigate industry challenges, build confidence, and establish long-term intergenerational and peer connections.

Mentors and mentees set goals and track progress throughout the program, sharing updates during quarterly cohort gatherings to ensure an intentional and enriching experience. The AAC Network offers ongoing support, check-ins, and evaluations to foster a meaningful and impactful journey for all participants.

Investment:

• To help cover administrative costs while keeping the program accessible, we ask mentees to submit a pay-what-you-can participation fee with a suggested amount of $100 ($10/month) upon being matched with a mentor. This contribution supports 10 months of professional development and mentorship.

• Want to sponsor a mentee and support this program? Invest in AAC!

Join us in strengthening the pipeline of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color leadership in the arts. Stay tuned for our official call for mentors and mentees - launching March 2025!