Interracial Coalition in Embry-Riddle’s Engineering Physics, Space Physics and Astronomy/Astrophysics Programs

Abstract:

Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs have been in place at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for many years. They offer assistance, support, and guidance to underrepresented students across all 300 majors offered. This coalition was created to address issues at a more personal level within the Engineering Physics, Space Physics, and Astronomy/Astrophysics programs. By focusing on these specific programs, students in these majors can receive more direct support from their own faculty. The aims of the Interracial Coalition are to provide students at the undergraduate and graduate level with a safe space to voice potential concerns, receive support from faculty, staff and alumni and be made aware of opportunities that can benefit them during this stage of their learning, and beyond. Starting this coalition will allow for a focused and more personal approach to successfully solving and eradicating the issues that lead to underrepresented students being discouraged from continuing in their higher education. Faculty members and students of all backgrounds are invited to join in on conversations regarding anti-racism, anti-discrimination, and their roles in promoting a safe learning environment for all people. This coalition will strive to further increase the research and funding opportunities for underrepresented students in terms of scholarships, grants, and internships and thesis topics with industry. It also helps enhance the educational and emotional support in and out of the classrooms, and provide resources to those students who want to pursue a higher level of education. In coming years, we hope these activities will help improve retention rates within these programs. This will add to the diversity of academia in the future and spur a new generation of scientists and engineers.