University of Choice for Minority Education in STEM Disciplines

Name of Concept: University of Choice for Minority Education in STEM Disciplines

Overview

I think we should try to become the place that minority students first think of when they consider careers in the STEM disciplines.  We can create a culture of teaching and student support that will allow minority students to thrive and excel in these fields.  This will allow us to be ahead of the demographic curve as the total population of the country shifts.

How this idea leverages current areas of RIT expertise

There are many fine teachers here at RIT who would be interested in doing the remedial teaching that many of these students may require because of the quality of their high school experiences.  We also have vast experience with students who have different needs.  I think we can acknowledge different cultural and educational backgrounds in the same way that we have with other populations of students with different educational and access needs.

Main RIT on-campus champion(s) for this idea

I'm not sure there is one.

Is there potential off-campus advocacy and support for the idea?

Yes, Rochester City School District, US Department of Education, NYS Department of Education

Why you believe RIT has a unique opportunity or an ability to differentiate itself through this idea

I think we have the experience working with populations of students with special educational needs.