Targeted Mentorship: Is it Still Relevant Today?
Abstract
A goal of national security policy is to have the armed forces representative of the society it defends and its leadership representative of the forces they lead. This paper seeks to provide understanding and actions for U.S. Army leaders to take regarding lack of African American representation in its senior ranks. It examines underlying causes of African Americans under representation and recommends ways the Army can begin a human capital strategy valuing diversity as a strategic necessity. The targeted mentorship of African Americans by all leaders, regardless of race, is a relevant and key aspect to developing this strategy. This research will address the underlying causes of under representation: occupational career choice; self-segregation; and inadequate mentorship opportunities in order to increase the pool of African American candidates who are competitive for senior level promotions. A human capital strategy that focuses on attracting, mentoring, and career management of African Americans is not about affirmative action for promotion but is about the actions required to align the strategic intent of Army leaders with building accountable organizations that value the strategic importance of diversity within its ranks.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA589323
Entities
People
- Reginald O. Godbolt
Organizations
- United States Army War College