John Colvin, CEO of the Australian Institute of Company Directors is really leading the ranks of good guys and showing his commitment to gender diversity on boards with the announcement of a new Board Diversity Scholarship Program by the AICD.  Under the program, the AICD together with the Australian Government Office for Women will award 70 full fee scholarships (not including accommodation and travel costs) to board-ready women to undertake the Australian Institute of Company Directors' highly regarded Company Directors Course or Mastering the Boardroom Program.

The scholarship recipients will also receive 12 months membership of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, giving them access to a wide range of information and services, to assist them with their directorship career.

Having already completed the Company Director's Course, I've found it's stood me in good stead for board applications and I really encourage you to apply for this scholarship if you are interested in pursuing a board career.

More information and eligibility criteria for applications - which close on 12th November 2010 - can be found on the AICD website.