Lutgert Mentorship Program | Florida Gulf Coast University

Mentors Open Doors

Our local Business Professionals make our program truly special.

Overview | Lutgert Mentorship ProgramVideo Thumbnail

12 Weeks

One semester program designed to fit in busy students schedules

6 Sessions

Meetings that work for you - flexible, concise, and impactful

1 Event

Kickoff Reception

The Mentorship Program was a transformative experience that greatly enriched my understanding of professionalism. It offered me the chance to engage with a variety of dynamic organizations, opening new horizons. My mentor, Chelsea, was an incredible source of motivation, embodying wisdom, a willingness to help, and steadfast determination. Her guidance and tips, which I will carry with me always, were invaluable. This program came at a perfect time in my life, providing the support and direction I needed when making career decisions felt overwhelming. It showed me the power of mentorship in navigating real-world challenges, and I believe it can do the same for anyone seeking clarity and purpose in their professional journey.”

Belen Findley

Finance '24

Being mentored by Phil Fischler has been a blast! I've soaked up a bunch of real estate know-how and connected with cool, like-minded folks. Grateful for this awesome experience! Plus, Phil and I became friends, and we're definitely staying in touch!”

Todd Reimet

Finance '24

Through the Lutgert Mentorship Program has enriched my time here at FGCU, I was able to be surrounded with like-minded people and inspired to go above what’s expected out of me. I have gained more than just technical skills, Dr. Roberta Atzori was able to encourage, and inspire. I am very excited for the future because of the work that was put into this program. I strongly encourage every student who is certain about their career to join and those who are not, as well.”

Rocio Ibanez

Analytics & Informatics '24

Through the Lutgert Mentorship program, I gained valuable insight into the world of business and professionalism. My mentor became a trusted role model, guiding me toward opportunities and encouraging me to get out of my comfort zone. The relationship we built is a true testament to the impact the program has and the lessons I learned will benefit me throughout my life and career.”

Natalia Perez

Management '24

Through the Lutgert Mentorship Program, I not only grew my professional skills, but also gained the confidence to take on new challenges as I stepped outside my comfort zone. I am grateful for my mentor, Mike Divico, whose wisdom and experience as a professional in the Logistics Sector guided and prepared me to enter the workforce and face its many challenges. I’m excited to continue to build upon the lessons I learned in this program as I navigate towards my future endeavors”

Elizabeth Gonzalez

Computer Information Systems '24

Testimonials from Mentors, Students, and More

Experiences from the Lutgert Mentorship Program truly speak for themselves.

Read about mentorship experiences

An initiative of Dean Chris Westley, the Lutgert Mentorship Program seeks to leverage the academic success of Lutgert College of Business students by matching them with mentors in their fields of study and interest as they prepare for productive careers as Lutgert alumni. With a mission to promote the professional development of the student and his or her business success, this program facilitates meaningful connections between students and individuals in their chosen industry. Lutgert Mentors are committed to sharing knowledge, advice, and constructive feedback to assist students in the transition from college to the real world in relationships that could last long after graduation. Housed under Lutgert’s brand-new Center for Business Success, the Lutgert Mentorship Program focuses on preparing students for the workforce and becoming future industry leaders.

Building and strengthening relationships with a new generation

''Business is about risk and reward, relationships and service, and mentorship programs are about establishing intentional and strategic connections between our students and the productive class’’

- Dr. Chris Westley

Read the full article on Gulfshore Business

Have questions about our Mentorship Program?

Talk with our Mentorship Program Coordinator to get the details you need to get started.

Program Quicklinks

Program Deadlines

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Deadline / Activity / Event	Fall Semester Program	Spring Semester Program
Application Window	April 1st – June 30th Early applications are welcome!	October 1st – November 30th Early applications are welcome!
Program Acceptance Notification	On or before July 15th Program Acceptance Notification will be sent via email All applicants will be notified, even those not accepted	On or before December 15th Program Acceptance Notification will be sent via email All applicants will be notified, even those not accepted
Matchmaking Period	July 15th – August 15th Matchmaking Notification will be sent via email after the match is made Notifications are sent as matches are completed - please be patient	December 15th – January 15th Matchmaking Notification will be sent via email after the match is made Notifications are sent as matches are completed - please be patient
Onboarding Meeting	Will be held between August 15th – August 30th Onboarding Meeting is for Students/Mentees ONLY RSVP is REQUIRED Meeting invitation link sent via email after all matches are made	Will be held between January 15th – January 30th Onboarding Meeting is for Students/Mentees ONLY RSVP is REQUIRED Meeting invitation link sent via email after all matches are made
Kickoff Reception	Event date/details will be announced in Acceptance Notification email RSVP by August 15th This event is the official program start date	Event date/details will be announced in Acceptance Notification email RSVP by January 15th This event is the official program start date
Mentorship Sessions	Six sessions is the program minimum (each 1-hour in length) Complete all sessions by December 15th	Six sessions is the program minimum (each 1-hour in length) Complete all sessions by April 15th

Eligibility Requirements
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Mentors

Professional in the field with significant experience (10+ years) and firsthand knowledge of business issues and the profession.

To have a range of experience that allows them to provide career assistance, direction, guidance, support, and feedback and serve as an advocate for the mentee.

They must have a genuine interest in the growth and personal development of the mentees.

Apply to be a Mentor
Mentees

Current student enrolled in the Lutgert College of Business at FGCU.

Student must be willing to receive support and guidance on their career and professional development goals from an experienced professional.

Student must be committed to the program and take the initiative to drive their personal and professional development.

Student must be in good standing in their degree programs. Minimum FGCU GPA of 3.0.

Student must be a full-time student.

Student must be Junior or Senior (60 credits accomplished).

Apply to be a Mentee
How to apply?
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- Start by submitting your online application:
  - Mentor Application
  - Mentee Application
- All students accepted into the Lutgert Mentorship Program are REQUIRED to attend the Onboarding Meeting before the program's official start.
How does it work?
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1. Application Window:
  Start by submitting your online application. This application will assist us in matching students (mentees) with the most appropriate mentor. The application is a concise and friendly online survey-type form.
  - Mentor Application
  - Mentee Application
2. Program Acceptance & Matchmaking:
  All accepted participants will be notified via email of their acceptance into the program. Matchmaking notification will then be sent via email after matches are made. Please note, mentors and mentees are responsible for communicating promptly any discrepancies or impediments to continuing with the program. Mentors will receive a digital packet containing the student’s resume, customized program materials including different resources/suggestions to maximize the mentorship experience. Mentees and Mentors will receive an invitation from the Dean to participate in Lutgert Mentorship Program Kickoff Reception.
3. Onboarding Meetings:
  Student Mentees must attend an Onboarding Meeting. Mentees will learn more about the program’s mission, participant expectations, program benefits, and requirements. In-person and online options will be available.
  - This meeting must be completed prior to the the Kickoff Reception which is the official program start date.
  - Any potential issues must be resolved prior to the the Kickoff Reception which is the official program start date.
4. Kickoff Reception:
  Attend the Kickoff Reception, a breakfast meet and greet to get the program started. This will be the first official interaction between the student mentee and the mentor. The event has the purpose of hosting and celebrating the Program Matches.
5. Mentorship Sessions:
  Mentees and Mentors must meet at least six times during the Lutgert Mentorship Program. Additionally, participants will receive a list of special invitation FGCU events they can attend together. Students are responsible for providing updates on mentor program goals and activities through biweekly Canvas check-ins. Mentor will submit an assessment of the student mentee on their success and achievement of the mentee's goals as well as overall performance in the program. At the end of the program, student mentees must submit a reflection paper (one-page length) describing the outcomes of the professional match.
6. Program Completion:
  Students will receive a Lutgert Mentorship Program Certificate upon the successful conclusion of the program / Mentors will receive special recognition from Dean Chris Westley for their service in the Lutgert Mentorship Program.

Why Be a Mentor?

Contribute to the development of the region's future leaders by transferring skills and knowledge.
Enhance coaching and mentoring skills
Expand your professional network and build new relationships with the Lutgert College of Business
Give back to the community and university by supporting young professionals
Gain new insights and perspectives on the latest industry and community trends
Strengthen the talent pipeline of SWFL
Invitation to exclusive Lutgert Mentorship events with campus leadership

Apply to be a Mentor

Why Be a Mentee?

Enhance your understanding of the industry
Build your professional network with industry leaders
Mentee Only Invitations to exclusive networking events on campus
Enhanced job opportunities
Opportunity to practice, refine and enhance career readiness competencies
Develop your own leadership style

Apply to be a Mentee

Lutgert News | MentorshipSee All

Professional Development Skills Course Bridges the Gap Between the Classroom and the Workforce

April 05, 2023 / Lutgert News / Tags: Accounting, Advertising, Agribusiness, Economics, Finance, Information Systems & Operations Management, Management, Marketing, Mentorship, New Course, PGA Golf Management, Real Estate, Resort & Hospitality, Sales, Undergraduate

The Lutgert College of Business remains in constant contact with industry partners to make sure our graduates have the knowledge employers are looking for. This consistent communication has led to new majors in Supply Chain Management and Data Analytics, integration of advanced MS Excel skills into the accounting curriculum, and a new concentration in International Business for management majors. Yet the most frequent request across disciplines and majors is the need for “soft skills”: networking with clients, giving effective presentations, writing professional communications. Even a handshake can make the difference between clinching a deal or losing a client.