To enrich students' professional development and to expand their classroom experience, Ave Maria established the Mentor Program, through which Ave Maria Board of Visitors members agree to help educate students in professional excellence and personal integrity. Approximately 475 distinguished lawyers, judges, legislators, and educators from throughout the United States and abroad comprise the Ave Maria School of Law Board of Visitors.

Ave Maria invites lawyers to join the Board of Visitors upon the recommendation of faculty, administrators, students, current Board members, and other friends of Ave Maria. Board members introduce students to the practice of law from a variety of perspectives.

The Mentor Program pairs each first-year student with a Board of Visitors member, enabling students to form professional and personal relationships with lawyers who will guide them as they progress through law school and transition to the practice of law. Through meetings, trips to court, or visits to the mentor's office, students gain a valuable perspective on what attorneys do on a day-to-day basis.

The mentor relationship continues until, and sometimes beyond, graduation. Geographic preferences and practice area interests are two factors used to match students with mentors. In some instances, mentor relationships lead to employment.