STEM
UW-Madison Launches Resource Hub for STEM Diversity
Image Credit: UW-Madison.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison yesterday launched an online hub, the STEM Diversity Network, which “highlights local and national STEM diversity news and serves as a central repository for STEM diversity resources spread throughout campus,” according the announcement.
“The goal is to create a campus community around STEM and compile campus resources available to underrepresented students, faculty and staff in a one-stop shop place,” said Anha Skop, an associate professor of genetics and affiliate faculty in the Life Sciences Communication (LSC) at the university. Skop and several LSC students built the website.
The online hub has published an initial set of articles and stories that discuss a few of the challenges facing university members from diverse backgrounds. The most recently published article, for example, discusses research on the prevalence of mental health issues in academia, especially among Ph.D. students. Another story highlights the important role a sense of community plays for female faculty members teaching math.
Additionally, the site emphasizes UW-Madison faculty accomplishments and includes mentorship support. For instance, users can find a list of STEM diversity advocates who are trained to provide guidance on professional development to students, faculty and advisers coming from diverse backgrounds.
The website received a grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, which funds scientific inquiry, and is currently supported by a gift from the Office of the Provost through the Vice Provost for Faculty and Staff, according to the university.
The STEM Diversity Network is now live. For more information, contact Ahna Skop at skop@wisc.edu.
About the Author
Sri Ravipati is Web producer for THE Journal and Campus Technology. She can be reached at sravipati@1105media.com.