Minal Bopaiah - Teachers Make a Difference - Johnnetta Betsch Cole

The speaker shares their transformative experience with Dr. Janetta Cole, a pioneering African American leader. Dr. Cole's mentorship emphasized mutual benefit and equality, leading to a close relationship. The speaker learned to navigate identity and leadership challenges, gaining insights into using personal identity effectively and authentically. Dr. Cole's wisdom helped the speaker understand the importance of leaders with similar identities in negotiating complex situations.

Who was the first African American woman to become president of Spelman College?

• Doctor Condoleezza Rice

• Doctor Maya Angelou

• Doctor Michelle Obama

• Doctor Janetta Bench Cole

What was Doctor Cole's perspective on the mentor-mentee relationship?

• The mentee should always follow the mentor's advice.

• The mentor should benefit as much as the mentee.

• It should be a one-way relationship.

• It should be strictly professional.

How did the speaker's relationship with Doctor Cole evolve over time?

• They worked together on a few projects but remained formal.

• They collaborated on a book and became like family.

• They only communicated through emails.

• They became distant colleagues.

What challenge did the speaker face in her professional life?

• Understanding organizational politics and authority

• Balancing work and personal life

• Finding a suitable job

• Managing a large team

According to Doctor Cole, why is it important to have mentors with similar identities?

• They can help with academic achievements.

• They can provide financial support.

• They have experience in negotiating situations unique to those identities.

• They can offer job opportunities.