"Science's Golden Rule: Give Back To The Community" (Liane Reif- Lehrer, The Scientist, Dec. 7, 1992, page 21) conveys an important message to scientists about their responsibility to the younger generation. While mentoring has traditionally been a one- on-one relationship, the concept is evolving beyond this classic model.
Recently, professional societies have begun to take up the challenge of supporting mentoring activities in an organized fashion. An example is the Association for Women in Science (AWIS), which is administering a three-year, $400,000 grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to support mentoring activities for undergraduate and graduate women around the United States.
Through regional chapters across the U.S., AWIS provides a matching service enabling both young and established women in science who are interested in becoming mentors to share their experience with women seeking specialized advice and guidance.
Other outreach activities include workshops at which young professionals can develop or...