Nearly a year after its relaunch in January 2025, our Nurse Mentorship Program is showing clear results, helping nurses grow in confidence, achieve their goals and strengthen connections across the system.
The first two cohorts paired 24 mentors and mentees from across Texas Children’s campuses to support each other through every challenge and success. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive: every nurse from the pilot cohort rated the program 5 out of 5 overall, with especially high marks for professional growth (4.8), belonging (4.7) and job satisfaction (4.9).
Staff nurses across Texas Children’s, including community campuses, interested in participating either as a mentor or mentee, can apply now for the January 2026 cohort through Dec. 1.
Building Confidence, Connection and Community
To support ongoing growth, the program team introduced several new tools in its inaugural year:
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A Leadership Toolkit to help nurse leaders promote the program among their teams.
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A “Mentorship Minute” newsletter with monthly conversation starters and tips.
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An optional midpoint check-in session where participants can share experiences with one another.
The program is also collaborating with an analyst to study long-term outcomes such as retention, professional advancement, and intent to stay.
“Nurses who feel supported and connected are more confident, more engaged, and ultimately more fulfilled in their work,” said Beth Pali, nursing professional development specialist and program leader.
As we prepare for the next round of mentorship, the first year offers a picture of how the program is already making a difference. From tackling pre-shift anxiety to pursuing graduate education and career advancement, nurses credit the mentorship program for helping them feel calmer, steadier and more self-assured in their work. Many pairs continue their relationships beyond the program’s six-month term, forming lasting professional and personal connections.
How Mentorship Strengthens Both Sides of the Relationship
“The biggest difference in my growth this year was having somebody to go to with questions where I didn’t feel like a burden,” said Megan Pirnik, a surgical and orthopedic nurse and mentee in the first cohort. “My mentor’s confidence in me and support showed me that I was already close to my goals and just needed a little bit of help figuring out the right steps to achieve them.”
With encouragement from her mentor, Megan earned her Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) certification— an accomplishment she had long hoped to achieve. Her accomplishment reflects how the program helps nurses set goals and take the steps needed to reach them.
While mentees report clear gains in confidence and career direction, mentors say the program has deepened their leadership skills and professional fulfillment.
“Mentorship is far more than offering advice; it’s about connection,” said De’Chelle Pierson, mentor and house supervisor at West Campus. “Through this experience, I’ve strengthened my ability to listen without immediately responding, to create psychological safety, and to lead with intentionality and vulnerability.
These are skills that have not only deepened my leadership but also humanized it.”
De’Chelle’s reflections echo what program participants across both cohorts have shared: mentorship benefits everyone involved. Mentors say they feel renewed pride in their work, stronger relationships with colleagues, and greater satisfaction knowing they are helping other nurses.
What’s Ahead
The next phase of the program includes a dedicated cohort for nurse residents, ensuring that mentorship continues as they transition from residency to practice. The long-term goal is to achieve 100% participation among nurse residents by 2027. Discussions are also underway to expand participation across other disciplines.
As the program grows, its impact reaches beyond individual outcomes, strengthening professional development pathways, fostering leadership at every level, and building a more connected nursing community.
“Having such a great mentor and resource made me want to be that for other nurses too,” Megan said. “Now I make sure to check in with my coworkers, offer help when I can, and encourage them to reach for their goals as well.”
Learn More
For more information, contact Beth Pali in Nursing Professional Development or visit the Mentorship Matters Share Point Site.