🐾 COACH Mentoring: Powered by Panthers. Driven by Purpose.
COACH MENTORING PROGRAM – What to Expect for Alumni
COACH connects Hanover alumni with students in a variety of ways—ranging from one-time conversations tied to class assignments to short-term mentoring and, in some cases, longer-term relationships. Not every connection is designed to be an ongoing mentorship. Many are intentionally short-term or class-based.
Each interaction is designed to provide students with real-world insights and to give alumni a meaningful way to share their experience. The level of engagement depends on the course, the student’s stage in their academic journey, alumni availability, and shared preferences between the student and the alum. Our goal is to be transparent about the purpose of each connection so expectations are clear on both sides from the start.
GIVING BACK THROUGH TIME, TALENT, AND BEING PRESENT
The COACH Mentoring Program is a longstanding Hanover tradition that connects alumni and students through meaningful relationships and shared experiences. COACH offers alumni a powerful way to give back—not just through financial support, but through time, talent, and presence. Now powered by HanoverConnect, mentoring is easier, more flexible, and designed to fit your life—wherever you are.
WHY BEING A COACH MATTERS
As a COACH mentor, you support the next generation of Panthers by:
- Sharing professional and personal experiences
- Offering guidance that builds confidence and clarity
- Supporting holistic growth—from careers to work-life balance
- Strengthening the value of a Hanover education through connection
MENTORING MADE SIMPLE
HanoverConnect allows alumni to mentor in ways that feel manageable and meaningful. As a mentor, you can:
- Create or update a mentor profile with your interests, availability, and preferred level of engagement
- Choose how you want to engage (career conversations, class-based interactions, résumé reviews, identity-based mentoring, and more)
- Message students directly through the platform
- Access mentoring resources and stay organized with match updates and reminders
- You set the level of involvement—HanoverConnect supports the connection.
HOW ALUMNI SUPPORT STUDENTS
Through COACH, alumni may connect with students in several ways, depending on the match:
- Career exploration & real-world insight
Conversations about career paths, industries, and what life after Hanover actually looks like. These may be one-time conversations or part of a short series of check-ins.
- Class-based, one-time interactions
Short conversations tied to coursework (such as informational interviews, résumé feedback, or mock interviews). These are typically one-time or short-term by design and may not continue beyond the assignment.
- Short-term or ongoing mentoring (when available)
Some matches are intended for a few check-ins over a semester, and in some cases, a longer-term mentoring relationship. The level of engagement varies based on alumni availability and what both sides agree to upfront.
- Shared identities & experiences
Connections based on shared backgrounds or experiences (LGBTQIA+, multicultural, international students, student-athletes, first-generation, etc.), depending on availability and mutual interest.
- Goal-focused guidance
Advice related to majors, class year, internships, job searches, and post-graduate plans. Some guidance happens in one conversation; other times it may continue over multiple touchpoints if both sides are interested.
SHARED EXPECTATIONS
To make COACH a positive and productive experience for everyone, we ask both alumni and students to keep a few shared expectations in mind:
- Not every COACH match is long-term. Many connections are intentionally one-time or short-term, especially those tied to classes.
- Alumni are volunteering their time. Students should approach each interaction with professionalism and appreciation for the time alumni are giving.
- Students are expected to come prepared. This includes reviewing assignment expectations, preparing thoughtful questions, and being ready to engage meaningfully.
- Professional communication matters. Students are expected to use professional email etiquette, respond promptly, and follow through on scheduling and next steps.
- Be flexible and respectful of time zones and schedules. Alumni may be balancing work, family, and other commitments across different regions.
- Clarity at the start matters. The experience works best when both sides understand whether the connection is meant to be a one-time conversation, a short-term check-in, or something more ongoing.
GET STARTED OR RECONNECT
Please note:
HanoverConnect access is currently available to active COACH mentors and graduates from the past 20 years. We will be expanding access to the broader alumni base soon.
A SHARED MISSION
COACH reflects Hanover College’s commitment to lifelong learning, service, and community. By giving your time and talent—and by being present—you help shape the future, one Panther at a time.
PROGRAM CONTACTS
Contact us at 📧 coachmentoring@hanover.edu
- Jenny Siepler Moss ’06
Executive Director, Levett Career Center
- Christy Hughes
Director of Alumni Relations