UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Throughout the month of February, the Penn State Eberly College of Science will feature stories from its Black students, faculty and alumni as part of its celebration of Black History Month.
Led by the college’s Climate and Diversity Committee and its events subcommittee, the effort aims to inform and inspire others by shining a light on these individuals’ experiences, their accomplishments, and their motivations for pursuing careers in science.
“Black in STEM is a way for our students, alumni and faculty to share all of their accomplishments in the sciences and in their careers, as well as to be an inspiration to future generations of the Penn State community,” said committee member and graduate assistant Megan Rieker. “It is important to highlight and foster a diverse network of scientists and continue to promote inclusion and diversity within the STEM fields. We are excited to be continuing this initiative for a second year, adding to our ever-growing list of distinguished Black scientists.”
These stories are showcased on the Eberly college website as part of its Black in STEM collection, and they are being compiled on a rolling basis as part of the college’s ongoing efforts to promote diversity, foster inclusivity, and increase representation of those in its community who have historically been underrepresented.
The stories also will be featured on the college’s social media channels throughout the month, providing additional opportunities for engagement.
“We are excited to recognize and celebrate our Penn State science scholars and alumni for Black History Month,” said Associate Dean for Diversity and Inclusion Kristin Finch. “This aligns with our mission to support a diverse community of lifelong learners and is just one of many activities the college is doing to highlight Black scientists, including a chemistry seminar series hosted by NOBCChE and a Celebration of Black in STEM event featuring our corporate partner GlaxoSmithKline. Please join us in supporting our college community through these in-person and virtual events.”
A calendar of Black History Month events is published on the Eberly College of Science website.
The college encourages all of its Black students, postdocs, faculty, alumni and staff to continue to share their stories via this Qualtrics survey set up by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.