Developing an educational program at a college or university encompasses a broad spectrum of human and technical components. Wrapped into these essentials are numerous considerations, such as: demand for the program (including immediate and projected needs); student interest and participation; physical aspects (such as classrooms, laboratories, equipment, specialty libraries, etc.); and support from faculty, school administrators, and the community—particularly businesses and business leaders. The program being developed can be an entirely new program, a modification or upgrade of an existing program, a spinoff from an existing program, or a program that bridges (i.e., interfaces) with other disciplines. Below is a discussion of key essentials that need to be addressed.
Reciprocity over Hierarchy: Designing and Implementing a Student-Led Reverse Mentoring Program
Many academic leaders, including administrators and faculty members, participate in traditional mentoring programs that prioritize hierarchy. But these programs typically don’t foster engagement and connection between students and faculty or
Marquita Lyons-Smith and Keva Suitte
October 19, 2026
