ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a framework for thinking about how diversity and mentoring intersect. Diversity refers to the visible and invisible characteristics, which can influence a person's status and power, in a mentoring relationship. The chapter draws on research to support Michelle Howard's mentoring advice. It highlights how diversity influences three process of mentoring: matching proteges and mentors; the beginning of the relationship; and the types of mentoring support provided. The chapter explains the "sink or swim" mentoring philosophy, so that mentoring coordinator can make mentoring participants aware of how to avoid it. It aims to increase mentoring coordinators' understanding of diversity and mentoring, so as to create safe spaces for mentoring conversations to flourish. Diversity and mentoring is of interest when people have group memberships that may limit their power or access to resources. Diversity is most important at the beginning of the relationship, when proteges and mentors seek to identify shared values and develop rapport.
