Perhaps reflecting on her impressive career and the historic candidacy of Barack Obama, Secretary Rice is questioning why the State Department isn't more representative of the U.S. population (AFP - Rice laments lack of black diplomats):

“I want to see a Foreign Service that looks as if black Americans are part of this great country,” Rice told a gathering of black colleges and universities in Washington. “I have lamented that I can go into a meeting at the Department of State,” said Rice, the second black person to become secretary of state after her predecessor Colin Powell. “And, as a matter of fact, I can go into a whole day of meetings at the Department of State and actually rarely see somebody who looks like me, and that's just not acceptable,” she added.

Rangel Fellowships are one method of increasing diversity at the State Department:

The program was founded and financed by federal funds secured by Congressman Rangel.  “Representing our country overseas as a Foreign Service Officer is one of the most exciting and distinguished careers I can think of,” said Cong. Rangel who established the program with the goal of increasing diversity in the nation's representation abroad.  “With the prestige of the United States behind them, our diplomats have the opportunity to serve their nation while experiencing the variety of cultures, languages and ways of life which comprise our global community.

The next application deadline for college seniors or graduate students interested in pursuing careers in the State Department diplomatic corps is Jan. 23, 2009.