This document summarizes an academic paper about mentoring networks for African American women. It begins by defining mentoring, tracing its origins from Greek mythology. It then outlines several models of mentoring relationships, including top-down, constellation, feminist, and Africentric models. The Africentric model is based on seven values of African society that emphasize unity, collectivity, self-determination, creativity, purpose, collaboration, and faith. The paper discusses the relevance of mentoring for leadership and early childhood education and its implications for teachers, faculty, mentors, and mentees. It concludes by considering the pros and cons of same-race and same-gender mentoring relationships.

1. An Objective Look at the African-American Woman’s Mentor Network Ashley Dunston Chancellor December 4, 2008 HDF 636: Research Paper The University of NC at Greensboro

2. What is a mentor??? “According to Homer’s tale of the adventures of Odysseus, the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athene, is responsible for the mentoring of the youth Telemachus while his seafaring father Odysseus is away. Disguised as Mentor, a loyal friend of Odysseus, Athene aids and guides the young man. She acts as trusted friend and counselor in all aspects of the boy’s life. Thus, originates the English word mentoring (Stalker, 1994, p. 567).”

3. Background Information The Top-Down (Hierarchal- Asymmetric) Mentor Model The Constellation of Mentors Model A Feminist Mentor Model The African-American Woman’s Mentor Network (Africentricity)

4. The Basis of the Africentricity“7 Values of African Society” Umoja (unity) Responsibility Ujimi (collectivity) Kujchagulia(Self Determination): nurturing Kuumba(Creativity): skill development Nia (purpose): self confidence Ujamma (convergence of “I” and “we”): collaboration Imani (faith): mentor/mentee

5. Relevancy to Leadership & Mentoring in Early Childhood Early Childhood Used with: Faculty Teachers University Scholars Affects student outcomes Leadership Professional Development Personal Growth Enhancement of : Communication Cultural Lens

6. Implications of Findings Teachers Attitudes Job Satisfaction Practices Faculty Professional Development Mentors Comfort Zones Mentees Resources

7. Summarizing Thoughts Pros/Cons of Same Race & Gender Mentoring

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