LDI Mentors: A Meaningful Opportunity to Invest in the Future of Physician Leadership
LDI mentor John Flores, MD, connects with his mentee, Olivia Safady, MD, during the 2026 LDI Culmination Weekend.
The Leadership Development Institute (LDI) is designed to cultivate diverse cohorts of aspiring physician leaders through leadership training, professional development, networking, and mentorship. While participants gain valuable experiences throughout the year, one element consistently stands out as central to the program's success: the mentor relationship.
Each year, LDI participants are paired with experienced physician leaders who provide guidance, support, and insight as they navigate some of the most important stages of their training and professional development.
For mentor Rajneet Lamba, MD, the experience was both meaningful and manageable. “The lift was not heavy and I really enjoyed spending time with my mentee, Christina.”
As Christina White prepared to relocate for residency near the conclusion of the program, Dr. Lamba helped connect her with physician leaders, specialty contacts, and members of her new state medical society, expanding her professional network and involvement in organized medicine.
“The program is a great way for younger folks to get involved and make meaningful connections. Our delegation includes many well-connected physicians, which allows us to maximize mentees’ time at the HoD by introducing them to leaders and colleagues within their state and specialty societies”
2025-26 Leadership Development Institute Participants
More Than Career Advice
LDI mentors serve as advisors, connectors, and champions throughout the program year.
Mentors and mentees establish professional goals, discuss career decisions, and navigate challenges together. Participants benefit from practical guidance, expanded professional networks, and greater confidence as they prepare for the next stage of their careers.
For LDI alum Sammy DeLuca, MD, the mentorship experience had a lasting impact.
“My mentor was a huge part of my decision to pursue psychiatry and gender-affirming care. For the first time in a while, the future feels exciting.”
Dr. DeLuca also noted the value of being connected with a community of physician leaders who shared her interests and passions. "It's been rewarding to be connected with so many people who feel passionately about the same things I do."
A Meaningful Commitment
The mentor role is designed to fit into the schedules of busy physician leaders. Mentors are paired with one participant, and together they establish a communication plan and identify at least one tangible goal to work toward during the program year.
The mentorship experience kicks off at this year's AMA Interim Meeting of the House of Delegates, where mentors and mentees will have an opportunity to meet, begin building their relationship, and lay the foundation for the year ahead.
The expectation is approximately two to three touchpoints per month, totaling about one to two hours. Mentors are also invited to participate in one or two virtual LDI sessions during the year.
Bringing Leadership to Life at HoD Meetings
One of the most rewarding aspects of the mentoring experience takes place during the AMA House of Delegates Annual Meeting, where the LDI program culminates each year.
Time is built into the schedule for mentees to shadow their mentors and gain firsthand insight into how the House of Delegates works. Through this experience, participants observe physician leadership in action, meet leaders from across organized medicine, and better understand the pathways available to them.
For mentors, it's an opportunity to introduce the next generation of physician leaders to the people, organizations, and experiences that can shape their careers.
Sarah Klinger, MD, a Leadership Development Institute participant, shadows her mentor, Robert Dannenhoffer, MD, during the 2026 AMA Annual Meeting.
Become an LDI Mentor
Mentorship is one of the most important ways the Leadership Development Institute develops future physician leaders. A few conversations, a shared perspective, or a well-timed introduction can make a lasting difference in a participant's career journey.
If you're a member of the AMA House of Delegates, consider becoming an LDI mentor. Your experience can help cultivate the next generation of physician leaders.
Click the button below to apply to be a mentor for the 2026-27 LDI cohort.