Mentoring Special Populations

Abstract

Mentorship is critical for career development. Members of special populations are at increased risk of information shortfalls and advice that is not framed with cultural sensitivity. Special knowledge and skills are needed to successfully mentor members of ethnic minority and other special populations. Midlevel and senior scientists need specialized training to effectively mentor the next generation of gerontological scientists. This article focuses on the characteristics of mentor and protégés and how best to match them for career success.

Acknowledgments

The first author of this paper extends special thanks to Linda M. Burton for her editorial suggestions. He also thanks the National Institute on Aging for their support of him and and of the programs he has been involved in to mentor students and faculty of color. Additional thanks to Taylor Harden, James Jackson, and Chandra Mehotra for mentoring this author and offering programs that mentor faculty and students of color.