Looking to advance your career in state government?
The Commonwealth Mentorship Program (CMP) helps state employees do just that. The application period for the 2026-2027 cohort opens on May 1, 2026. The program will kick-off on September 3, 2026. If you're interested in applying for the next cohort,
the application period will be open until June 30, 2026. Stay tuned for more information!
About the Program:
For Mentees
CMP offers one-on-one mentoring with seasoned professionals, focusing on career development, skill acquisition, and statewide networking. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights and guidance to achieve your career aspirations.
For Mentors
CMP provides a platform to enhance your mentorship and leadership skills while making a significant contribution to the development of fellow state employees.
Commonwealth Mentorship Program - Leadership Track
Preparing the Next Generation of Commonwealth Leaders - See more information about the CMP Leadership Track
CMP Program Highlights
- Duration: 12 months (6 months formal, 6 months informal)
- Platform: Qooper Mentoring Software
- Participants: Up to 50 Mentors & 50 Mentees
- Objectives:
- Develop Emerging Leaders
- Enhance Career Development
- Strengthen Employee Brand
- Promote Diversity, Opportunity, and Inclusion
CMP fosters a culture of knowledge sharing, breaks down silos, and contributes to improved employee retention, promotion, and engagement. The program connects individuals from diverse career and education levels, creating a rich learning environment.
Testimonials from Current CMP Participants
“My mentor has been instrumental in helping me overcome small challenges in my everyday work life by providing advice based on her own knowledge and experiences”.
Susanna Wells, Mentee
2024-2025 Cohort
“Honestly, mentoring has taught me how important it is to organize, review, and prepare before any meeting I have with my staff. As an Administrator, I have monthly (and weekly) one on one meetings with all 10 of my staff and while I am prepared to discuss their caseloads, I missed opportunities to encourage personal development goals. Now, I use the tools from the Mentorship program to offer ideas for their career development, facilitate discussion on work/family balance, and I encourage staff to offer me feedback on what I can do better to help them in their roles. I am now listening to various leadership/mentoring podcasts, and I am reading more about how to develop lasting teamwork in difficult circumstances.”
Cynthia Ford, Mentor
2024-2025 Cohort
For questions, please reach out to the Commonwealth Mentorship Program at cmp@dhrm.virginia.gov.