Nexus: A Proven Experience in Leadership

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the time commitment for NEXUS?

Approximately three to four hours each month from August to September.

That monthly commitment includes:

  • A dinner and teaching session from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., one Thursday night a month from September - May.
  • A one-on-one informal meeting, usually over coffee or a meal, arranged at the convenience of both the mentor and protégé. The purpose of this time is to pursue leadership mentoring goals agreed upon by the two.
  • Assigned reading to include no more than three books and various timely articles.
  • An annual overnight retreat from Friday evening through Saturday afternoon to kick-off the NEXUS experience each fall.

How are mentors recruited for NEXUS?

  • Mentors are recruited each spring by invitation.
  • The NEXUS Board approves a list of mentors. The committee compiles the list from its knowledge of area leaders and from recommendations made by current NEXUS mentors and protégés as well as alumni.
  • The selection criterion, set by the NEXUS Board, includes that potential mentors be leaders the committee would like to see “duplicated” in our community.

“As a mentor, I don't know of many things more worthwhile and powerful than the opportunity to make a meaningful 'investment' in someone's life... an investment of time and the occasion in which to share one's life experiences with the hope it may benefit that person. It is awfully exciting to see the growth and development of young leaders. To be able to instill confidence in them and see their potential come to life is very rewarding.”

Kem Wilson, Mentor
Principal, Kemmons Wilson Companies

How are proteges recruited for NEXUS?

Protégés are recruited three ways:

  • A mentor may recruit his or her protégé from a pre-existing relationship.
  • MPACT Memphis, a co-sponsor of NEXUS and a Memphis leadership organization for individuals 40 and under, recruits its members who would like to be matched with a mentor.
  • NEXUS Alumni and Board members may suggest potential protégés for participation in the program.

How are proteges and mentors paired for the program?

The NEXUS Board and MPACT Memphis utilize detailed questionnaires, as well as personal insight and relationships, to pair mentors and protégés together in complementary relationships.

"NEXUS really challenges you to think strategically about what you'd like to accomplish in your personal life and career. Having a mentor's counsel along that journey is invaluable."

Angie Craig VP, US Investor and Media Relations
Smith and Nephew, Inc.

What is the cost to participate?

  • The program tuition is $500 for both mentors and protégés and covers the costs of the overnight retreat, curriculum materials, monthly dinners and closing banquet. Corporate sponsors, private donations and grants subsidize NEXUS’ expenses so that the program may be offered at a reasonable cost to individual participants.
  • All participants, both mentors and protégés, must pay tuition.
  • Area companies and organizations offer tuition reimbursement for their employees and members.
  • Tuition scholarships are available to both mentors and protégés.

When is tuition due and are scholarships available for mentors and proteges?

  • Tuition in full or a confirmed payment plan is due in August before the fall term begins.
  • Tuition scholarships are available for both mentors and protégés through the Wilson Foundation.
  • Although scholarships are available, every participant is required to make at least a $100 personal or corporate financial commitment. Prior experience proves that participants’ sense of investment, ownership and accountability are essential to the program’s success. NEXUS does not disqualify participants for financial reasons.
  • A committee reviews scholarship and grant requests.

    • How do I obtain graduate level credit for NEXUS?

    Forms from the University of Memphis and Christian Brothers University are available in the NEXUS office for this proven, accredited curriculum. NEXUS participants work with the Dean of the University College for this graduate school offering.

    How do I contact NEXUS for more information?

    Contacting us is easy! Please contact us through our contact page.