The American Association of Nurse Practitioners® Welcomes the 2026 FAANP Mentoring Program Cohort
Media Contact: Bryan Black
Announcing the next generation of nurse practitioner leaders receiving one-on-one mentorship with the AANP Fellows.
AUSTIN, TEXAS — The American Association of Nurse Practitioners® (AANP) understands the value of mentorship between nurse practitioner (NP) leaders and the next generation of NPs. Facilitating the mentor and mentee relationships to foster the next generation of NP leaders was one of the stated purposes of the Fellows of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (FAANP) program when it was established by AANP in 2000. The FAANP Mentoring Program is just one program that fulfills this purpose by pairing qualified applicants seeking one-to-one mentorship with an AANP Fellow. By pairing seasoned Fellows with NPs seeking professional growth, FAANP is making an enduring investment in the health care leaders of the future.
AANP is now honored to welcome the 2026 FAANP Mentoring Program cohort. FAANP has accepted 42 NP mentees with diverse backgrounds from across the U.S. to pair with 42 Fellow mentors. NPs accepted in this program will work with their FAANP mentor for approximately one year on mutually agreed-upon goals that will be accomplished during the time of mentorship. In collaboration, these mentors and mentees will discuss issues in a disciplined, solutions-focused manner; widen and deepen the NP network influence; elevate the NP experience and much more.
The Fellows of AANP are excited to guide and promote the development of these emerging NPs. Whether you’re interested in becoming a mentor or mentee, the FAANP invites you to discover the mutually rewarding benefits of the FAANP Mentoring Program. Visit the FAANP Mentoring Program website for more information and next cycle dates — and read what past cohort members have shared about their experiences below.
Insights From Past FAANP Mentors and Mentees
“Participating in the FAANP mentoring program has been deeply meaningful, both personally and professionally. It reinforced my motivation to continue taking on new experiences as a leader and take calculated risks within my organization to foster growth.”
-Katlyn D., Mentee
“It was my privilege to be accepted into the FAANP mentoring program. I worked with my mentor, and we hashed out plans for career growth and success. It's a great program to be in!”
-Reenu V., Mentee
“Being a participant in the FAANP Mentoring Program has given me the courage to go back to school and pursue a dual certification in psychiatric-mental health. It provided me with life-applicable tips dealing with conflict resolution, team building and career advancement strategies.”
-Ashley B., Mentee
“The FAANP Mentoring Program was such an amazing experience. My mentor really helped me find my footing as a novice looking to get into legislation and make a difference for APPs in Maryland. We stay in touch and make sure to meet at least yearly at the annual AANP Health Policy Conference.”
- Lateaqua A., Mentee
“The FAANP Mentoring Program gave me the guidance and confidence I needed as a newer faculty member. This support strengthened my career direction and transformed my professional growth.”
- Dannica C., Mentee
“I had a great experience with the FAANP Mentoring Program. My mentor was very knowledgeable, approachable and encouraging. It can be quite challenging starting out as a new NP, and having the advice and input from someone with experience is invaluable.”
-Mercedes M., Mentee
“Participating in the FAANP Mentoring Program has been incredibly rewarding. Personally, it allows me to give back and support the next generation of NPs. Professionally, it strengthens my leadership skills and keeps me connected to emerging trends and perspectives in our field.”
-Selena G., Mentor
“I mentored a colleague to develop and submit a manuscript on diabetic foot care in underserved Filipino adults, providing structured guidance, feedback and support that built scholarly skill, confidence and autonomy aligned with FAANP mentorship principles.”
-Tammy A., Mentor
“The FAANP Mentorship Program is an excellent opportunity for seasoned NPs to support and guide novice NPs as they enter the profession.”
- Lakshi A., Mentor
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The American Association of Nurse Practitioners® is the largest professional membership organization representing the 461,000 licensed nurse practitioners (NPs) in the United States. As The Voice of the Nurse Practitioner®, AANP advances health policy and promotes excellence in practice, education and research to support high-quality, patient-centered care. Learn more at aanp.org.