The Mentorship Program for Women Administrators pairs the field’s most promising female professionals with opera leaders who can support these protégés in achieving their career goals.

Overseen by the Women’s Opera Network, the program selects protégés from a competitive pool of applicants based on their demonstrated career arcs and potential to make significant contributions to the opera field.

Mentors share their knowledge and experience to guide protégés in a positive and nurturing environment, while identifying barriers and achievement gaps. Through meetings at their companies and at the annual conference, they establish and execute an action plan for professional growth.

The program was established in 2018 to promote the advancement of women and increase the number of women in leadership roles.

The Mentorship Program for Women Administrators is supported by OPERA America’s Backstage Brunch.

Program Details

Participation as a protégé in the Mentorship Program is available to individuals who are committed to a management career at an OPERA America or Opera.ca member organization.

Participation as a mentor is available to individuals in leadership roles at OPERA America or Opera in Canada member companies.

Protégés and mentors are paired based on the protégé’s goals, and they commit to working together for a full calendar year, including attending the annual conference.

Next Application Cycle

How to Apply

Review the program guidelines and application worksheets to apply. All protégé and mentor applications must be submitted through the online forms.

Program Guidelines & Worksheets

• 2021 Guidelines (PDF)
• Protégé Application Questions (PDF)
• Mentor Application Questions (PDF)

For questions about applications or eligibility, contact us at Programs@operaamerica.org or 212.796.8624.

Meet the Alumni

Mentorship Program protégés and mentors are listed with their titles and company affiliations at the start of their participation.