Purpose: 

The International Faculty & Staff Mentor Program aims to foster a supportive, inclusive, and sustainable community for international faculty and staff at Lafayette College. The program is designed to ease the transition of international faculty and staff into the academic and cultural environment of the U.S., enhance their sense of belonging, strengthen professional and personal networks across campus, and foster a supportive community that continues beyond the initial transition period.

About:

The International Faculty & Staff Community of Practice (IFSCP), a network of Lafayette faculty and staff who self-identify as international, includes members who were born and educated outside of the United States and who bring diverse global perspectives and experiences to the campus community. In response to the findings of the Spring 2025 IFSCP needs analysis, the community launched this informal mentoring program to provide a platform for international faculty and staff to connect, share experiences, and support one another.

Mentors—experienced international or globally engaged domestic faculty and staff—offer a safe space for dialogue on topics such as teaching and research expectations, navigating institutional systems, balancing work and personal life, and adapting to U.S. academic and cultural norms.

The program also provides an avenue for mentees to discuss challenges related to immigration, professional growth, and integration into the Lafayette community in a confidential, supportive environment.

To encourage meaningful connections, each pair is eligible for reimbursement of up to $50 per semester for coffee or meals. In addition, IFSCP will host group gatherings each semester to strengthen community ties and celebrate the contributions of international faculty and staff.

Ultimately, the program seeks to enhance retention, satisfaction, and leadership development among international colleagues.

Join the Program:

We invite international and globally engaged domestic faculty and staff to participate as mentors or mentees. To ensure timely matching for the Fall 2025 semester, please complete the participation form by November 14. Each pair will be contacted during the following week, and the program will continue to accept applications and make pairings on a rolling basis. 

• Mentors: Experienced faculty and staff who are willing to share guidance, advice, and encouragement with colleagues new to Lafayette or the U.S. academic system. Mentor Application Survey.
• Mentees: International faculty and staff seeking support and connection as they navigate their professional and cultural adjustment at Lafayette. Mentee Application Survey.

Participation is voluntary and flexible. Pairings may be based on shared interests, disciplines, or experiences such as immigration status, career stage, or cultural background. While mentees receive guidance, mentors often find the exchange equally enriching through cross-cultural insights and community-building.

Faculty and staff interested in joining the program can complete a brief application indicating their preferences and areas of interest. Surveys and conversations are private unless otherwise agreed. Information collected will be used solely for mentor–mentee matching and kept confidential within the Provost’s Office. 

Matches are coordinated by the IFSCP Advisory Board and funded by the Provost’s Office and Division of Inclusion.

Questions? Contact Tingting Kang at kangt@lafayette.edu or the IFSCP Advisory Board.