Business Affairs Commission (BAC) Lifeline Mentor Program

Aspiring leaders — at all levels, in any field — need role models and guidance to be successful. The Business Affairs Commission (BAC) strives for professional excellence in its membership. 

Mentorship is one way to enhance professionalism and individual success for its newest members. This voluntary, informal program gives new BAC members an opportunity to interact one-on-one with a seasoned BAC member.

Having a “lifeline” available can be instrumental in the new member's success and survival. The mentor serves as leader, role-model and guide to foster insight, identify needed knowledge, and answer questions about the profession to impact the mentee's career. A mentor is an added resource and safe venue to explore issues unique to the Washington state community and technical college system.

After the mentor and mentee meet, the mentee is self-directed, contacting the mentor on an as-needed basis. However, it is helpful when the mentor checks in with the mentee at least at regular BAC meetings to see how they are doing. Ultimately, it is the mentee's responsibility to set the frequency and intensity of the relationship.

Application Form

• BAC Lifeline Mentor Program Application

Program Process

• The BAC Operations Committee is responsible for the mentor program and keeps an ongoing list of available mentors.
• When a new member joins BAC, the BAC Operations Committee determines if he/she is interested in participating in the mentor program and, if so, assigns a mentor.
• Upon assignment, the mentor will contact the new member and establish the mentoring relationship.

Mentor Commitment

• Mentors are asked to assist the new BAC member as they learn the responsibilities of a business officer.
• Mentors should be available for questions and moral support as needed.
• Mentors should be open to sharing personal professional experiences as appropriate.
• Respect the relationship. Keep confidential discussions confidential.

Being a mentor provides an extraordinary opportunity to facilitate a mentee's personal and professional growth by sharing knowledge learned through years of experience. The experience gained by mentoring someone can facilitate the mentor's own professional growth, making them more of an asset to their college.

Mentee Commitment

• Mentees should consider contacting their mentors at least monthly (by phone or email) to debrief on any issues or questions they may have. If they don't have pressing issues or questions, then the frequency may be less often.
• Mentees should be respectful of a mentor's time by keeping appointments and promptly returning emails and phone calls.
• Mentees should feel free to contact the mentor for information, advice and moral support as needed, or "just because."
• Respect the relationship. Keep confidential discussions confidential.

Being a mentee provides an extraordinary opportunity to gain knowledge and personal experience in a safe and open environment. The experience gained will help provide the confidence needed to succeed as a business officer.