Mentoring Program
The Secured Finance Foundation and the SFNet DEI Committee proudly present the 2024 Fall iteration of our Mentoring Program. This initiative facilitates connections between seasoned industry veterans and newcomers, fostering a supportive environment for mutual learning through virtual mentoring.
We recognize the value of a workforce that represents all members of our community and believe that growth and development are just as important for DEI initiatives as hiring and retention are. Through a combination of bi-weekly virtual group activities and one-on-one meetings between mentoring pairs, our program provides a supportive environment for Mentees to enhance their skills, gain valuable insights and network with professionals who share similar interests and experiences. Mentors can give back to their industry by sharing their expertise, experience and insights, contributing to the development of the next generation of industry leaders.
Mentoring pairs engage in bi-weekly group activities via Zoom. We also encourage Mentees and Mentors to participate in 1:1 sessions on alternate weeks, using suggested activities that will be shared on the program’s private LinkedIn group page.
The application period for our Fall 2024 Mentoring Program ended August 30. The program runs mid-September through early December.
Information about our Our Spring 2025 Program will be available soon. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to our Program Manager, Denise Castagna, at dcastagna@sfnet.com.
Application and Acceptance
To be considered for the program, you must:
- Be an employee of an SFNet Member company (verify that your company is a member in our Member Directory)
- Complete the Program Application
Pairing Process and Program Launch
- Accepted applicants will receive notification and an invitation for upcoming events and Mentor/Mentee orientation.
- Mentors will post a 200-word blurb on the private LinkedIn group page, sharing what inspired them to become a mentor.
- Mentees will post a 200-word blurb on their career or personal goals and how they hope to benefit from the mentoring relationship.
- Mentees will review LinkedIn posts, conduct research, and choose three Mentors for the mandatory Speed Interviewing event.
- After the event, Mentees will be paired with Mentors for the program's duration.
We encourage active participation in weekly events to maximize program benefits. Events will include discussions, 1:1 Mentor/Mentee pair meetings and group activities.
To learn more about the Secured Finance Foundation, click here.
To learn more about the SFNet DEI Committee, click here.
What do past participants say about SFNet's Mentoring Program?
2024 Spring Mentees
"Participating in this year’s SFNet Mentoring Program was the highlight of my Q2! My mentor’s guidance & advice have proven truly useful in my day-to-day. The program also helped me forge connections with not only my mentor, but several mentees as well. I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to participate earlier this year, and I encourage other young professionals to do so if they can - the experience is invaluable!" Eunice Kepka, Associate, Originations, White Oak Commercial Finance
"The SFNet Mentoring Program was a wonderful, irreplaceable experience. For so many of us, networking can be extremely intimidating, but this program truly helped with my confidence and professional development. I met so many great people because of this program, including my fantastic mentor Jan. We covered a broad range of topics in the ABL industry during our sessions, which greatly improved my knowledge and efficacy. Throughout the program, many of the mentors gave valuable insight into our industry, and I could tell that our mentors truly wanted to be there for us, consistently showing an interest in leading the next generation of ABL professionals. I am extremely thankful for all of the opportunities given to me by this program!" Bryan Whitaker, Senior Associate, Capital Foundry
“Participating in the SFNet Mentoring Program has been an exceptionally enriching experience. The guidance and support provided by my mentor have not only deepened my industry knowledge but also enhanced my confidence at work. The personalized feedback and the opportunity to address real-world challenges were invaluable. SFNet's engaging sessions offered fresh perspectives that were both insightful and inspiring. I highly recommend this program to anyone seeking to achieve personal and professional growth” Paola Socci, Associate Portfolio Manager, Siena Lending Group
2023 Mentees
“This program has had a profound effect on my professional development. It has encouraged me to not only expand my network, but to also challenge myself both professional, and mentally. It has also taught me to not be afraid to take challenges and accept more responsibility in work.” Edward Gonzalez, Collateral Analyst, Siena Lending Group“The Secure Finance Network has given me an opportunity of a lifetime by connecting me to thought leaders of all ages in secured finance. I have not only gained a lifelong relationship through my mentor, but have gained a network of talented professionals that I genuinely think I'll work with throughout the arc of my career. ” Zarik Khimani, Originations Associate, Fifth Third Business Capital
“This mentorship program has immersed me into a whole new industry and has also given me the opportunity to gain exposure to other professionals and mentees. I am grateful for my mentor’s guidance, support and his knowledge along with the long-term relationship that will be the result of an outstanding two-way contribution that this platform helped us create. I truly believe and advocate for the importance and impact of mentorship as it has been key to my personal and professional growth and appreciate all the hard work that every staff member has put into this program to make it happen.” Arianna Romero, Credit Analyst, Bank of America
“The mentorship program is worth its weight in gold. This program has given me the time and space to connect with so many incredible mentors who “walk the walk & talk the talk”. Doors are opening for me that I didn’t know were possible. I’m now connected with thoughtful and insightful mentors who care about the growth and development of ABL's next generation of leaders. I am blown away by the generosity of our mentors and what we’ve accomplished in our sessions. What a great program for any young professional looking to expand their knowledge and network.” Emily Neuherz, Senior Associate, Portfolio Management, Capital Foundry
“It has been a complete privilege to be a part of this year's SFNet Mentorship Program. The program has opened up a whole new network in my professional field. The experiences and ideas shared by all the mentors have given me valuable new skills in developing my career.” Charisma Lohony, Assistant Manager, J D Factors
“The SFNet mentoring program has helped me increase my network, allowing me to meet new people each week. It has also expanded my knowledge in underwriting and originations to further my career. Lastly, it has given me the opportunity to build a lifelong relationship with my mentor, on both a professional and personal level.” Aaron Daley, Credit Analyst, Ares Management
2024 Spring Mentors
"Mentoring with SFNet has been an incredible experience. It's been very rewarding to share my experiences and help guide talented individuals in their career journeys. I've learned just as much from them as they've learned from me, and it's been amazing to see their growth and enthusiasm. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this program and excited to keep making a difference together." Raphael Torres, Executive Director, Wells Fargo Commercial Banking Group
“As I watch the Olympics it comes to mind that even the most elite athletes have a mentor, a coach. To that end, I know many elite members of the finance community who struggle with parts of their business. It could be a challenge of finding new valuable connections, improving on the position they may be in today, imposter syndrome, anything holding them back. The SFNet Mentoring program is a game changer for those who want to grow as a mentor, and those who want to be mentored through their own challenges. We can all grow, knowing someone in the network ‘has your back’, who can give you guidance with accountability. Some lucky ones can grow by chance, while others really need that person who will guide, challenge and lift up consistently.” Jill Kirshenbaum, Senior Vice President, Briar Capital Real Estate Fund
2023 Mentors
“Being a mentor is an incredible opportunity to work with some of the best and the brightest in the workplace. We often think about mentorship as what we give to our mentees in terms of advice and career support. I am so proud to have shared my journey with an amazing young person who I in turn learned so much from during our time together. My mentee has helped me grow personally and allowed me to reflect on my own past and the ways I have handled key moments throughout my career. I am so grateful for the mentorship experience we shared and excited for her as she moves forward in her own career.” Jennifer Palmer, CEO, JPalmer Collective
“It is a privilege to be a part of my mentee’s growth journey. I appreciate the opportunity to encourage, support and guide her to tap into her full potential.” Meredith L. Carter, President and CEO, Edge Capital Lending
“To me, mentoring is the ability to uncover potential, helping cast away self-doubt and revealing the confidence and abilities within.” Vince Mancuso, Managing Director, Garrington Capital
“Trust yourselves! Us mentors, just remind you of your resilience, hard work, passion, and leadership skills to become an added value to your organization.” Rosario Jáuregui, SVP, New Business, Merchant Financial Group
“The joy of mentoring is created in the present for the benefit of all in the future.” Brian Resutek, Senior Vice President, Rosenthal & Rosenthal
"Mentoring the next generation in finance isn't a task; it's a joy. Sharing my experiences in hopes of imparting wisdom, seeing potential ignite, and helping shape success is a reward in itself." Raphael Torres, Head of Business Development, Access Capital
“The SFNet mentorship experience is a great opportunity to collaborate with talented young professionals. A true partnership – fostered by an environment to promote relationships, where both individuals can learn from each other, and share impactful career-building experiences.” Dana Knowlton, Managing Director, BMO
“It becomes more evident every time I speak with young professionals, that it is essential to take into account the intrinsic power drawn from diversity in the market. Seasoned professionals bring experience, younger ones bring innovation and a combination of both, bring success!” Oscar Rombola, Managing Director, eCapital