Southern Connecticut State University’s (SCSU) Innovation Hub (i-Hub) received the 2024 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from Insight Into Diversity magazine, the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education. The Inspiring Programs in STEM Award honors colleges and universities that encourage and assist students from underrepresented groups to enter the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). SCSU Innovation Hub (i-Hub) will be featured, along with 82 other recipients, in the September 2024 issue of Insight Into Diversity magazine.
“Our team is dedicated to helping students gain needed awareness of, experiences and skills for, and access to internships and jobs with STEM companies,” said Peter Dimoulas, grant program administrator, Research and Innovation, SCSU.
“We have had much success these past several years; however, much remains to be done to sustain and deepen our support for students traditionally underrepresented in STEM. By continuing to work together we will grow, we will build, and we will support the next generation of STEM professionals right here in the heart of Connecticut.”
The i-Hub has earned a reputation as a valued partner within industry and the community, offering professional development for local educators, consulting with local school districts, and providing matching funds for faculty seeking industry-standard equipment. The i-Hub facilitates paid research experiences, hosts community-building events, and provides individualized services for STEM students. Key initiatives include the “Connecting Students and Professionals of Color” network event, which fosters connections between professionals of color in STEM and students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Thanks to support from CTNext and the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, SCSU i-Hub’s programs are accessible and free to students. Over the past several years, the i-Hub has provided paid research experiences for 85 students, hosted events with over 500 annual attendees, and helped over 150 students secure jobs and internships with STEM companies. Among their program participants, 39% identify as persons of color, and over 60% as female.
“We know that many STEM programs are not always recognized for their success, dedication, and mentorship for underrepresented students,” said Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of Insight Into Diversity magazine. “We want to honor the schools and organizations that have created programs that inspire and encourage young people who may currently be in or are interested in a future career in STEM. We are proud to honor these programs as role models to other institutions of higher education and beyond.”
Meet some of our recent graduates.
