D-ENTERPRISE U Southern Mississippi
Abstract
A vibrant work force and interdisciplinary knowledge base are key to leadership for both our fundamental understanding of the oceanand related natural world around us, as well as for Navy and wider national security priorities that depend upon that understanding. Unfortunately, geoscience - especially ocean science -- is one of the least diverse disciplines in all of the sciences - even lessdiverse than physics, computer science or astronomy - at both the student and scholar level. The D-ENTERPRISE Initiative aims to address these issues by using a multi-phased, multi-institution, multi-region approach to engage underrepresented BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) students and scholars at all levels, with a particular focus on delivering high-impact, student-centered programming, building mutually beneficial relationships with faculty and students at Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) to develop opportunities for research collaborations, and cultivating diverse career pathways to fulfill ONR workforce needs. The South Coast Ecosystem of the D-Enterprise Initiative (SCE-DEI) aims to: increase Under-Represented Minorities (URM) enrollment in ocean science degree programs and provide a multi-tiered support network and education program to increase students ingress and success in ONR related ocean research. Specifically, SCE will (1) increase the recruitment of URM students by raising awareness of ocean science career pathways, (2) expand regional access to undergraduate and graduate ocean science programs and (3) increase the success and retention of URM by fostering the development of strong science-identities (that is, the perception of one who knows about, uses, and sometimes contributes to science e.g., through summer program that offer career development and ONR related internships all through the lensof fostering a growth mindset) and providing support through sustained, positive multi-tiered mentorships. We seek to take an "early and often" approach, providing awareness of marine science and career opportunities early in their education journey and reiterating the message throughout their time in higher education in various ways. The SCE will also engage in capacity-building efforts suchas research matchmaking and leveraging ONR funding to expand SCE - DEI opportunities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Nov 09, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142412753
Entities
People
- Kristina Mojica
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Southern Mississippi