Mentoring Ecosystems for Learning and Development
Building Skills, Shaping Policies, Driving Global Impact

Mentoring Ecosystems for Learning and Development (MELD) is a strategic partnership formed by the International Mentoring Association (IMA), the University of New Mexico Mentoring Institute, and the Center for the Improvement of Mentored Experiences in Research (CIMER).

Founded in 2025 by Nora Dominguez (Director, UNM Mentoring Institute), Lisa Fain (President, International Mentoring Association, 2024–2026), Dr. Melissa McDaniels (Associate Director, CIMER), and Dr. Christine Pfund (Director, CIMER), MELD unites three internationally respected institutions committed to advancing high-quality, research-informed mentoring.

MELD integrates IMA’s global leadership in mentoring best practices, community-building, and accreditation, CIMER’s evidence-based mentor and mentee training, grounded in rigorous research, and UNM Mentoring Institute’s work in building mentoring cultures across higher education and communities.

Together, these strengths create a connected mentoring ecosystem designed to expand access to mentoring, elevate standards of excellence, and support practitioners, researchers, and programs around the world.

In 2026, MELD will launch a dynamic three-phase series of Learning Forums, bringing together leading mentoring scholars and practitioners from around the globe. Across Phase 1: Skill Development, Phase 2: Organizational Policies, and Phase 3: Practical Applications, you’ll gain foundational skills, explore structures that sustain mentoring, and apply real-world strategies that elevate impact.

With the combined networks of IMA, the UNM Mentoring Institute, and CIMER, these forums will feature experts, cutting-edge insights, and practical tools you can use in your mentoring programs and research.

Register below to be among the first to engage with the world’s foremost voices in mentoring.

Understanding Mentoring Ecosystems Wednesday January 14, 2026 8am Pacific / 11am Eastern Led By: Nora Dominguez (UNM Mentoring Institute), Lisa Fain (IMA), Melissa McDaniels (CIMER), and Christine Pfund (CIMER) Explore the foundations of mentoring ecosystems in this skill-building learning forum. You’ll learn the core components, clarify the roles of mentors, sponsors, coaches, and allies, and understand the benefits of interconnected support systems.