Creating an inclusive environment in the Geosciences through science education programs

Abstract:

Making science accessible and welcoming to the next generation of scientists is important for retention and increasing representation in the Geosciences. As a first generation Mexican-American, I was fortunate to have participated in educational programs that build a cohort and support for traditionally underrepresented students. These programs helped me feel like I belonged in the science community, that I along with fellow students could succeed, and that there was institutional support for inclusion.

After earning my PhD in Geophysics, I decided to enter a career in science education where I could keep building these inclusive environments. In this presentation, I will highlight programs at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) and how we work to provide an inclusive environment, build cohort relationships, provide professional development workshops, and offer a support network for undergraduate/graduate students, post docs and university professors. I will discuss current efforts of building a bilingual community of practice in the geosciences and our expansion of bilingual science education materials. Lastly, I will discuss the efforts of building the Society of Latinx/Hispanics in the Earth and Space Science, a cross discipline organization aimed to build a network for Latinx/Hispanics in the earth, space, and related sciences from undergraduate and graduate students to postdocs, faculty and professionals.