The Bilateral Journey from Mentorship to Colleagueship and Friendship in an EdD Leadership Program

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/ie.2026.531

Keywords:

mentee-mentor collaboration, virtual doctoral mentorship, professional relationship building

Abstract

The aim of this reflective essay is to demonstrate the transformative journey from a doctoral mentor-mentee relationship to one of colleagues and friends, highlighting the influence of the education doctorate on research and leadership practices. As is common in many mentoring relationships, the primary objective is to foster learning. This exceptional experience proved to be mutually advantageous for both the mentor and mentee. Now, two years after their initial pairing, the duo reflects on their journey toward their current professional collaboration, supported by relevant literature. This essay examines the key elements of a successful mentor-mentee relationship that extends beyond the completion of the degree to further academic endeavors. Specifically, we illustrate how communication, shared values, and commitment are interconnected components that enhance the quality of mentorship, ultimately leading to long-term, productive partnerships.

Author Biography

Jennifer Scully, Marymount University

Jennifer L. Scully has been an educator for more than 30 years serving as a teacher, coach, Dean of Admissions, Assistant Head of School and the Head of Maplebrook School. She holds a B.A. from SUNY Albany, an M.A. from Fordham University and an Ed.D. from Marymount University.  Dr. Scully has served as the President of the International Association of Special Education as well as the 9th Biennial Conference Chair.  She has an expertise in the acquisition of social skills in adolescents, building resilience in students and an advocate for character education.  Dr. Scully has spoken at national and international conferences and conducted workshops in social skills, resilience and character development.  She has published a book on the subject for teachers, parents and administrators entitled, The Power of Social Skills in Character Development:  Helping Diverse Learners Succeed.  Dr. Scully has developed coaching programs for schools, she conducts research, has written articles and presents at conferences on mentoring both in schools and higher education.  She is a lecturer for Marymount University and advises doctoral candidates.  Dr. Scully is a member of the International Mentoring Association and the editor of the conference proceedings for the Division of International Special Education & Services (DISES).  Other professional dedication includes volunteering as an accreditation chair for Middle States Association of Colleges & Schools (MSA-CESS) and overseeing the Division Director Mentoring program for ST Search & Consulting.

References

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https://www.american.edu/provost/ogps/graduate-studies/current-graduate-academic-regulations.cfm

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Dennis, M., & DiMatteo-Gibson, D. (2022). Online doctoral cohort mentors: Model implementation and evaluation. Journal of Organizational Psychology, 22(2), 109–117.

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Published

2026-07-29

How to Cite

Melideo, S., & Scully, J. (2026). The Bilateral Journey from Mentorship to Colleagueship and Friendship in an EdD Leadership Program . Impacting Education: Journal on Transforming Professional Practice, 11(3), 67–72. https://doi.org/10.5195/ie.2026.531

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 3 (2026): Regular Issue

Section

Essays

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Copyright (c) 2026 Shannon Melideo, Jennifer Scully

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