Strengthening STEM Pathways: Strategies for Supporting Students from Low-Income Backgrounds at HBCUs

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

This symposium brings together principal investigators from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) participating in an S-STEM Hub—a strategic alliance funded to support high-achieving students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from low-income backgrounds. The session will explore how HBCUs are leveraging scholarships, mentoring, and academic enrichment to increase STEM degree completion and workforce readiness among underrepresented students.

The symposium will offer insights into how HBCUs are building inclusive STEM ecosystems and contributing to national efforts to diversify the STEM workforce. It will also provide implications for policy, practice, and future research in postsecondary education opportunities and student success.

Sub Unit

• Division J - Postsecondary Education / Division J - Section 1: Student Learning and Development in College and Beyond

Chair

• Ivory A. Toldson, Howard University

Papers

• Bridging Access and Completion: A Model for STEM Scholars from Low-Income Backgrounds at an HBCU - Grant Wanjala Wangila, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

• Biotechnology Pathways: Leveraging Mentorship and Workforce Experience to Advance STEM Students from Low-Income Backgrounds - Sarwan Dhir, Fort Valley State University

• Engineering Experiences: Developing Leaders in Computer Science and Engineering through Holistic Support - Claude Turner, Norfolk State University

• Key Predictors of Engaged Learning Among S-STEM Engineering Students at an HBCU - Jing Yan, Tennessee State University; Xia Zhao, Tennessee State University; Lin Li, Tennessee State University

Session Organizer

• Brittany Boyd, American Institutes for Research

Discussants

• Mercy Mugo, Qem Network

• Brittany Boyd, American Institutes for Research