This presentation will take an intricate look at the global and national value of Diversifying STEM in the United States of America. We will examine the racial inequities in the STEM education to career pathway, gain an understanding of why these inequities exist, reflect on how these inequities have been addressed and introduce a model to address these racial inequities. Several case studies focused on becoming a STEM agent of change in education will be shared, along with the Diversifying STEM Equity Model which connects several studies focused on factors that motivate Black and Latinx students to engage in STEM, as well as identifies and addresses issues related to the racial STEM divide; with the goal of informing diversifying the STEM education to career pathway.

A Diversity, Epidemiology and social justice unit was incorporated into the Pathophysiology curriculum in Fall 2016. Students discussed topics such as social and cultural influences on diversity thinking, and selective treatment in hospitals based on race. It was very noteworthy that students were united in their thinking regarding diversity and inclusion, despite the fact that they were from different backgrounds and diverse cultures. From 2017 - 2020, additional discussions were held on equity in education and LGBTQ+. Students who were otherwise reserved were encouraged enough to express their views, and everyone appreciated the fact that they had been included. The success of this diversity unit has encouraged more equity-related work at our academy. Steps are under way to further develop this curriculum and train other educators to do the same in their academic institutions.

The PROMISE and EXCEL programs focus on providing equity to STEM fields. PROMISE (Providing Opportunities for Mathematics and Science Enrichment) program is for students in 7th-9th grade students interested in STEM from culturally, linguistically, and economically diverse (CLED) backgrounds. EXCEL serves as a bridging program for incoming sophomores many of whom are also CLED students. As the director of both programs, I will provide an overview of each program. The presentation will include a discussion of the history, current focus, as well as the successes and challenges that the programs have experienced. I will highlight the changes that have been initiated over the past 3 years including program expansion and plans for the future of each program.