Medical ProfessionalsMembers ResourcesASDS Diversity, Equity and InclusionRise Up Mentorship Program

Rise Up Mentorship Program

 

Mentee Application »

Mentor Application »

Application Deadline: Jan. 3, 2025

If ever there was a time to prioritize mentorship and promote inclusivity, opportunity and accessibility within dermatology, it is now. The ASDS is committed to taking meaningful steps to advance diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility within both the dermatology community and the organization. One such initiative is the Rise Up Mentorship Program, designed to nurture and support the careers of dermatologists from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging.

The program pairs mentors with mentees to share their professional knowledge, skills and experiences. Through effective mentorship, mentors help mentees build valuable connections, provide exposure to opportunities and develop leadership acumen. Mentors provide coaching, give advice on career advancement, encouragement and empowers mentees to embrace and express their authentic selves as they thrive in their professional journey.

The Rise Up Mentorship Program emphasizes inclusivity, opportunity and accessibility, and is a structured initiative designed to provide guidance and support to individuals from diverse backgrounds. It ensures equal access to mentorship opportunities for everyone, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability or other protected characteristics, with the goal of fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and accessible environment within dermatology and the organization.

Expectations

It is expected that mentees and mentors will:

  • Agree on the goals of the mentorship relationship, including the frequency of communication and complete a Mentoring Relationship Agreement.
  • View a one-hour webinar entitled, “Jumpstart Your Mentorship.”
  • Participate in the virtual introductory mentee and mentor meeting.
  • Attend the Rise Up Mentorship Reception at the ASDS Annual Meeting.

Participants will be recognized by the Society in Currents, on the website and during the Annual Membership Meeting at the Annual Meeting. The greatest value for your participation is the satisfaction you will feel by making a difference!

Mentee Information

The ASDS Rise Up Mentorship Program supports dermatologists from all backgrounds who have faced adversity, offering guidance and opportunities to expand their professional networks while fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging.

Mentee Expectations

  • Share in 250–300 words how your experience with adversity has shaped your journey into the medical profession and your path within the specialty of dermatology.

​Should you meet the eligibility requirement, you are asked to:

  • Agree on the goals of the mentorship relationship, including the frequency of communication, and complete a Mentoring Relationship Agreement.
  • Participate in the virtual introductory mentee and mentor meeting.
  • Select a project you hope to complete with your mentor's support.
  • View a one-hour webinar entitled, “Jumpstart Your Mentorship.”
  • Connect with your mentor(s) at least once a month (encouraged).
    • Be open
    • Ask for help, support and guidance when needed
  • Attend the Rise Up Mentorship Reception during the 2025 ASDS Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois.  The date and time are to be determined.

For more information on the program, please contact ASDS Governance Manager Tamika Walton at twalton@asds.net.