Peer Connections Program Returns for 2026-2027
Expand Your Network. Build Meaningful Relationships. Connect with a Colleague Who Understands Your Work.
One of the greatest benefits of NAPAHE membership is belonging to a national community of higher education professionals who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of our work. Yet many of us serve in highly specialized roles where there may be few, if any, colleagues on our own campus who truly share our day-to-day experiences.
That's why we're excited to relaunch the NAPAHE Peer Connections Program for 2026-2027.
Peer Connections is a six-month professional networking and relationship-building experience designed to connect NAPAHE members in meaningful one-to-one partnerships. Participants are thoughtfully matched with a fellow member based on factors such as professional interests, institutional characteristics, career experiences, and personal development goals. The result is an opportunity to build a trusted professional relationship with someone outside your institution who genuinely understands the work you do.
About the Peer Connections Program
Peer Connections is not a traditional mentoring program. Rather than pairing a mentor with a mentee in a hierarchical relationship, Peer Connections is built around the concept of peer-to-peer learning and mutual support. Both participants enter the partnership as equals, bringing their own experiences, perspectives, challenges, and expertise to the conversation.
To help participants make the most of the experience, the program includes a structured yet flexible engagement framework. Following the kickoff orientation, participants will receive a monthly Connection Guide featuring suggested discussion topics, reflection questions, and conversation prompts designed to encourage deeper dialogue and relationship-building throughout the six-month program.
Topics may include:
- Professional journeys and career pathways
- Leadership experiences and workplace challenges
- Institutional culture and emerging issues in higher education
- Professional goals and growth opportunities
- Work-life integration and personal well-being
- Future aspirations and long-term career planning
Participants are expected to:
- Attend the virtual kickoff orientation
- Meet with their assigned peer approximately once per month for six months
- Engage in open, respectful, and collaborative conversations
- Participate actively in building a mutually beneficial professional relationship
- Complete brief program feedback opportunities as requested
Many participants discover new ideas, gain valuable perspectives, expand their professional networks, and develop lasting relationships that extend beyond the formal program experience.
Key Program Dates
- Applications Open: August 31
- Application Deadline: September 14
- Matching Process: September 15-18
- Kickoff Orientation: September 23
- Peer Meetings Begin: Week of September 28
- Program Duration: Six months
Apply Today for Peer Connections 2026-2027
NAPAHE's greatest strength has always been its people. Peer Connections builds on that strength by creating intentional opportunities for members to connect, learn from one another, and strengthen the relationships that make our community unique.
We invite you to take the next step in growing your professional network and becoming more deeply connected to the NAPAHE community.
Submit your application by September 14 and join the next Peer Connections cohort.
Click Here to Complete the Peer Connections Application
The Peer Connections Program is organized and facilitated by NAPAHE's Professional Development Committee.
Questions about the Peer Connections Program? Email us at