A federally funded project at the University of Alabama, Project Growth, was developed in response to the need for more participation by women and minorities in educational research and leadership. The project emphasizes both professional and personal growth experiences, with broad exposure to a variety of research topics. A comprehensive, specifically formulated search strategy is used to recruit pre- and post-doctoral scholars as candidates for the 1-year project. Stipends are offered, and personal and professional growth contracts are required of each participant. Program activities include workshops, seminars, practice information interviews, and attendance at local, state, and national professional meetings. Individualized programs of work, study, and writing are developed for each scholar, and opportunities are provided to refine speaking and presentation skills. Scholars are urged to expand their expectations and goals and to find one or more mentors to assist them in proposal development and in finding employment. Project Growth has succeeded in recruiting and training women and minority scholars who are now in leadership positions, through a low-cost program that has benefited both the university and the education profession. (FG)