At R-RIGHTS, we envision a world where every individual, regardless of their racial or ethnic background, shapes a thriving STEM ecosystem marked by groundbreaking innovations that advance global health and nurture the well-being of STEM professionals and students.Our future celebrates diversity, eliminates systematic disparities, and collectively drives transformative breakthroughs through a race-conscious approach to STEM innovation.We aim for a STEM workforce reflecting the rich diversity of our communities, where success transcends race, ethnicity, gender, geography, and socio-economic factors, celebrating these differences as sources of beauty and innovation propelling us towards greater discoveries and progress.Within the scope of the R-RIGHTS agenda, the integration of mental and physical health stands as a fundamental mission. Recognizing the pivotal role of race as a determinant of health, our aim is to confront and address the disproportionate health burdens faced by racial minorities. Individuals who have experienced structural racism exhibit a heightened susceptibility to illnesses. Although the intricate relationship between structural racism and the increased risk of morbidity and mortality associated with physical and mental illnesses is still subject to study, it is evident that substantial efforts are required to rectify health disparities within marginalized communities. At the heart of our R-RIGHTS agenda lies the commitment to holistic well-being, encompassing both mental and physical health. We recognize the undeniable influence of race as a critical health determinant and are determined to combat the significant health challenges that disproportionately affect the racially minoritized.

(EDEFI) (pronounced “edify”) investigates the institutional, technical, social, and cultural factors that affect decision-making, career choices, and career satisfaction for engineering and computing doctoral students, candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and faculty who have been marginalized by race and/or gender. EDEFI also looks at ways those factors contribute to the current underrepresentation of these marginalized groups in engineering and computing faculty positions. We pay special attention to increasing the numbers of Black faculty in these positions.

My study investigates successful African American, Asian American, and Latino physical science and mathematics advanced college students and the role of racial stereotypes in post secondary career and academic decision-making.

NAEd, Spencer Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow, 2009-2010Department of Comparative Human Development, University of ChicagoChicago, IL 60637

Thesis Title: Race, Identity, and Resilience: Black College Students Negotiating Success in Mathematics and Engineering