<p>Diversity in cardiothoracic surgery will not occur passively. It requires a concerted effort. Historically, cardiothoracic surgery has been one of the least diverse specialties in medicine. The first woman was certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery in the early 1960s, nearly one-half century after the specialty was established, but progress from there continued slow. It took another 20&#xa0;years before the number of women cardiothoracic surgeons exceeded one dozen. More recent efforts by leaders in the specialty have focused on making the specialty more attractive to women with a view towards making cardiothoracic training seem normal, regardless of the trainee’s gender. Diversifying any specialty begins with recruitment, mentorship, support, and finally sponsorship to cultivate future leaders with merit-based promotion. These principles are not only applicable for gender diversity but also for racial and ethnic diversity. The American Association for Thoracic Surgery Medical Student Diversity Scholarship exemplifies a concerted effort to encourage diversity in cardiothoracic surgery. Early reports from this program are encouraging and demonstrate the potential outcome of a group committed to taking action and making a long-term positive change.</p>