The challenge of retaining underrepresented minority students in science has been well-documented. Research shows that students leave science for a variety of reasons, including the lack of role models, isolation, and an underdeveloped sense of identity as a scientist.   Based on the success of ESA’s Presidential award-winning SEEDS program and research on engaging racially and ethnically diverse students, this workshop provides an opportunity for instructors, program leaders and other professionals to enhance their cultural awareness and expand their capacity for cultural competency in response to these factors.

Cultural competency is the ability to “understand, communicate, operate, and provide effective services to people of another given culture”.

The mission of SEEDS is to diversify and advance the ecology profession through opportunities that stimulate and nurture the interest of underrepresented students to participate, and to lead in ecology.

The objectives of the workshop are:

1. To assess enhance personal cultural awareness,
2. To develop an appreciation for the role of cultural values and context in science
3. To develop a community of mentors supporting each other in gaining cultural competency

The workshop will share findings on effective culturally relevant mentoring and utilize self-assessments and case studies to facilitate discussion. Participants will be able to develop skills in cross cultural communication, recognize positive academic self-concepts and design an atmosphere of interaction and learning that welcomes diversity.

SEEDS alumni will be invited to co-facilitate the workshop.