Mentorship Program

Registration Now Open!

Mentorship program registration is open until November 21, 2025 for mentors & mentees. Sign up now to get involved! Mentorship Application Form

 

Local Government Mentorship Program

The Local Government Mentorship Program pairs current full-time and part-time MPA students with experienced Alumni mentors currently working in the field of Local Government.

The program gives students an opportunity to create connections that will develop their skills, expand their professional networks, and prepare them for their future careers.

Participants commit to meeting once per month from December through June. Meetings may be held virtually, in person, or by telephone. 

For complete details, you can reference the LGP Alumni Mentorship Program Guide.

Mentor Responsibilities

  • Share experiences working in the field of Local Government
  • Provide a realistic view of life after graduation
  • Help students develop career goals
  • Introduce students to industry related organizations and volunteer opportunities
  • Support and guide students, acting as a positive role model and coach
  • Give thoughtful and constructive feedback
  • Assist in recruiting other Alumni mentors

Why Mentor?

  • Gain satisfaction helping a student succeed while enhancing your coaching and listening skills
  • Get to know upcoming talent in the field
  • Learn from students about recent research in the field of Local Government
  • Stay connected with the Alumni Association and events

When I was matched with Kelly through the alumni mentorship program, I gained more than program related guidance, I found a person committed to helping me navigate the balance between career, course work, and life with practical advice and encouragement.

What made the mentorship most valuable for me was the way Kelly offered insight that blended her professional expertise with personal reflection. She did not just share what she knew from her time in the Local Government Program and her career in municipal government; she helped me understand how I could apply those lessons to my own educational and career journey.

Through our conversations, I was able to more completely envision how academic concepts translated into practical application, bridging the gap between theory and the realities of public service. Through her guidance I was able to see the impact of program material in the broader municipal environment. 

We talked openly about career changes, continuing education, and professional development. Kelly introduced me to authors whose works she valued, encouraging me to explore beyond assigned readings.

In addition to the professional insights, what I value most is that our mentorship evolved into a meaningful and supportive friendship. We continue to stay connected, meeting annually at the Alumni Conference.

Kelly has been everything I could have hoped for in a mentor; thoughtful, encouraging, and genuinely invested in my success. I am grateful for everything she has shared with me, and even more grateful that our connection has continued beyond the program.

Dale Gartshore MPA’25

When I completed my MPA in 2023, I knew I wanted to stay connected to the program that had become an important part of my professional life.  With over 20 years in municipal government – focusing on budgets, business planning, strategic planning, and performance measurement – mentoring felt like a natural way to give back and help emerging leaders find their footing in public service. 

I was paired with Dale, a career firefighter with Sarnia Fire and Rescue. On the surface, our backgrounds appeared quite different, but that’s exactly what made our conversations so meaningful. My experience working with York Regional Police and supporting York EMS and Vaughan Fire – along with my personal connection through my father, a retired fire chief – gave me a deep appreciation for Dale’s perspective. Our discussions about leadership, service, and community quickly became some of the most rewarding moments of the mentorship.

The highlight was finally meeting in person at the 2024 Annual Alumni Conference. After months of virtual chats, it genuinely felt like reconnecting with a friend I’d known for years. 

Being a mentor has reminded me how much we can learn from one another, no matter where we sit within the municipal world. It’s been one of the most fulfilling ways to give back, and I hope every alum considers becoming a mentor - it’s an experience that stays with you long after the program ends. 

Kelly Sutton, GDPA’22, MPA’23

Mentor Eligibility

Mentors must be working professionals in the field of Local Government who are interested in providing support and guidance to current students. Mentors must be available to meet and keep in contact with their mentees on a monthly basis. Mentors must be comfortable meeting via skype or telephone if in-person meetings are not possible.

Interested in Becoming a Mentor?

Share your experiences and contribute to student success! Contact lgpmentorship@gmail.com for more information.

***This program is offered by the Local Government Program Alumni Society with the support of the Local Government Program.***