Insight into development of a mentorship program in a professional pharmacy organization

Abstract Introduction The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Pharmacy Practice Section appointed a task force charged with developing a formal, national mentorship program for association section members. This manuscript provides insight into the creation of a mentorship program in a professional organization. Methods Eighteen task force volunteers were divided into four sub-teams, along with a chair and vice chair. Sub-team responsibilities were segmented into the following: (1) mission and vision development, (2) structure and content, (3) assessment and impact, and (4) dissemination and scholarship. Task force members were surveyed to generate recommendations for creating a formal mentorship program within a professional organization and reflect on the process. Results Seven of 14 eligible task force members completed the questionnaire (50% response rate). Most participants were mid-career, involved in a range of development aspects, and represented both committee members and leadership within the task force. The average time commitment was 15–19  hours over the year. The most common resource utilized was published literature and guidance documents. Identified needs included validated assessment tools, a wider range of exemplary programs to review, and guidance on broader organizational support. Strengths included organization and sub-team structure. Areas for improvement included coordination between sub-teams and resources available. Participants noted the challenges of creating a program to meet the diverse needs of a large membership. Conclusions This manuscript demonstrates the feasibility and evidence-based approach in creation of a mentorship program within a national organization.