This study was a qualitative study of the effect of mentoring on the career path of women who are members of racial and ethnic minority groups and have become presidents of community colleges in the state of Illinois. It used a multiple case study method utilizing in-depth interviews, documentation review and observations. Research shows nearly half of all college presidents are approaching or have already arrived at retirement age, and it is expected that the next generation of presidents will be more representative of the populations being served. Women who are members of racial and ethnic minority groups are considered underrepresented and disadvantaged groups in higher education, especially in presidential appointments. A lack of diversity may increase emotional conflict, rivalries, and heated interactions. The participants consisted of women who are members of racial and ethnic minority groups and have become presidents of community colleges in the state of Illinois. One hundred percent participation was achieved. Finding a systematic understanding of how mentoring relationships enable women who are members of racial and ethnic minority groups to reach the role of community college president, may increase the number of women who are members of racial and ethnic minority groups to be more proportionally represented in college presidents. One common theme among the participants was that they had all experienced more discrimination for their gender than for their race. Another common theme that arose about barriers and/or obstacles experienced by the participants, centered on limited opportunities, their individual support structures, and life choices. The findings showed the participants felt it was their responsibility to mentor others. They felt their careers have benefited from being mentored. Lastly, institutions need to take an active role in developing their leaders. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]