Each Emerging Leader is paired with a Senior Stennis Fellow as a mentor, generally based on party and chamber, for regular meetings. There are also periodic group discussions on career and leadership issues of interest to the Emerging Leaders.

Collectively, the program provides a unique opportunity to enhance the knowledge and skills young staff need to succeed in the congressional environment and to expand their network of relationships. More than 100 staffers have participated to date, and many continue to serve on congressional staff or have gone on to become Senior Stennis Fellows.