Alameda Health System’s (AHS) mentorship program is just one of the ways we are committed to investing in those who aspire to grow, lead and help transform the future of health care for the patients and communities we serve.

“The mentorship program helps AHS deliver on our mission by developing strong leadership as a part of our organization’s succession readiness,” said Camille Salter, manager of leadership development and training. “It also enables us to invest in our employees by tapping into their talent while affording them the opportunity for growth.”

The organizational learning and effectiveness (OLE) department launched the mentorship program in August 2022, and recently several of the graduates from the first and second cohorts gathered for a graduation celebration where participants shared their appreciation for the program.

“I am grateful to work for an organization that sees the value of mentorships and invests the time and resources to provide a mentorship program for staff,” shared mentee Sue Fairbanks, program director, Creedon Advanced Wound Care.

Fairbanks also credits her bond with mentor Jeanette Dong, chief strategy officer with supporting her professional growth and helping make the mentor and mentee relationship such a positive one. “In addition to developing a deeper understanding of the organization, I feel fortunate to have developed a friendship with Jeanette that will last a lifetime.”

Mentors and mentees are matched based on several suitability criteria including individual preferences, similar goals and objectives and common interests.

Mentee Holly Garcia, director of ambulatory operations also expressed her gratitude for finding the perfect mentor match in Richard Espinoza, chief administrative officer, post-acute services.

“Richard created a safe space for me to be vulnerable,” she said. “I was able to authentically share my challenges with someone who is familiar with the system and whom I trusted to provide insightful and honest feedback.”

The benefits of the mentorship program are equally rewarding for the mentors as Espinoza shared. “Listening closely to what was important for Holly and what she wanted to gain from the experience was my first goal,” he said. “Seeing her intentionally trying new techniques and approaches was amazing, and what was most rewarding was that we both gained so much from the experience, especially, a wonderful friendship.”

The mentorship program is a six-month commitment that includes six hours of orientation and training, six one-hour monthly cohort check-ins, and ongoing one-on-one meetings based upon the scheduled agreement between the mentor and mentee.

A program champion and mentor himself, James Jackson, chief executive officer shared some inspiring words with the graduates and encouraged each to pay it forward.

“Thank you for participating in the mentorship program and my only ask is that you continue to find opportunities to lift others up to be all that they can be,” said Jackson. “Together we are helping to build the future of health care that we want to see at AHS.”

To learn more about the program and how to apply to become a mentor or mentee, visit the AHS Mentorship website.