"Nothing Was Easy": Adapting Student-Centered, Culturally Responsive STEMM Programs on Predominantly White Campuses

• In Event: Interrogating Inequitable Systems and Processes in STEM

Abstract

This study explores the adaptation of the Meyerhoff Scholars Program (MSP) to determine how student-centered and culturally responsive STEMM interventions were adopted on predominantly white, research-intensive campuses. Using organizational theory and campus case studies, we examined the process and challenges of adopting characteristics of the MSP based on an HBCU model. While eager to establish a scholars program for underrepresented students, campuses were not prepared for the cultural responsiveness and value distinctions that conflicted with individualist, predominantly white campus culture. Some initial resistance was also evident until program success was evidence-based. The success of culturally responsive programs offers lessons for campuses developing inclusive science training that affirms students’ racial and science identity.

Authors

• Sylvia Hurtado, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Edwin Jose Perez, University of Texas at El Paso
  Presenting Author

• Denise Ortiz, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Channel McLewis, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Amanda Carrasco, University of California - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author

• Norma Angelica Jaimez Noel, University of California - Los Angeles
  Non-Presenting Author