Scholarly Tailgating Defined: A Diverse, Giant Network

Abstract

**Please note that the full text is embargoed** ABSTRACT: Scholarly tailgating and developmental relationships can soar professional identity, advance one’s scholarly career and foster cultural diversity in healthcare. This paper provides the definition and basis of scholarly tailgating for scholars who wish to propel their careers and help enable diverse cultural approaches. Scholarly tailgating is for those who wish to succeed and capitalize on the culturally diverse expertise and reciprocal network relationships from others in their web of influence. The concept of scholarly tailgating explains the use of homophilic and diverse, multidisciplinary network relationships to foster an intellectual community in healthcare in general and to benefit healthcare consumers and all being served. Scholars can benefit from standing on the shoulders of giants and allowing the aerodynamic wind to propel them to soaring career heights. Prudent scholars, apart from utilizing homophilic relationships and balancing these relationships with diverse heterophilic relationships, are able to lead in the professional academy, and become innovators who practice with cultural relevance. Multi-ethnic, diverse scholars working collaboratively can assist in igniting conversation and actions that reduce disparities, which are indigenous to those who are most vulnerable. Purposeful strategic planning and development of diverse networks that support scholarly advancement can best achieve these career accomplishments.....

The purpose of this paper is to provide the definition and basis of scholarly tailgating. This focus is for individuals who wish to be inspired, motivated, taught to fly high, and expand their scholarly career perspective and approach, by capitalizing on intellectual expertise and reciprocal network relationships within their sphere of influence. Ultimately by practicing scholarly tailgating, healthcare providers will reap benefits of improved cultural diversity across multiple healthcare fields and in turn patients will receive improved culturally relevant care.