College Students
CeMaST supports increasing opportunities for students who identify with groups that are marginalized in and minoritized by mainstream STEM, including students who identify as Black or African American, Latinx, Native American, women, LGBTQ, and students who otherwise feel they have not been allowed a voice in STEM disciplines. Furthermore, CeMaST strives to support the university's efforts to prepare future STEM teachers in providing equitable and inclusive STEM education throughout their careers.
Programs
Science IS-U Scholars
The Science IS-U (pronounced "science is you") Scholars program is a community of science majors who are interested in transforming STEM disciplines to be more inclusive, diverse, equitable, and anti-racist by marshalling their scientific expertise to pursue just, empathetic, and equitable solutions to societal problems. Science IS-U Scholars are curious and have a self-determination to pursue scientific discovery and lifelong learning. Scholars participate in Science IS-U's early arrival program, the co-sciences living/learning community in Hewett residence hall, and an all-expenses paid research internship. Scholars receive a $10,000/year housing credit for participation in the living/learning community (up to two years) and complete the general education course, IDS 119: The Civically Engaged Scientist, tuition-free.
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SCI-LSAMP
ISU is a member institution in the Southern & Central Illinois Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (SCI-LSAMP). SCI-LSAMP seeks to increase retention, graduation, and success of students who identify with groups that are historically underrepresented in STEM fields. This program offers holistic support and individualized mentoring to guide students through the completion of their bachelor's degree and into graduate degree programs or careers in STEM.
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STEM Ambassadors
STEM Ambassadors are first-year STEM majors who care deeply about equity, diversity, full access, and inclusion in STEM disciplines. They want to become change agents in their STEM fields and evolve STEM disciplines toward more equitable and inclusive practices. STEM Ambassadors are paid student employees of ISU’s Center for Mathematics, Science, & Technology, and they fill a four-year position, which is intended to span their undergraduate study.
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STEM Alliance
STEM Alliance seeks to support STEM majors who identify with a group that is marginalized in and minoritized by mainstream STEM. STEM Alliance events include career days, field trips, mentoring by STEM faculty, financial assistance, and support for engaging in undergraduate research.
2023 LSAMP Conference Photos
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April Schermann STEM Scholarship
Funded by a gift from ISU alumna and local STEM teacher, the April Schermann STEM Scholarship provides a $1,500 scholarship to a sophomore, junior, or senior STEM major who demonstrates financial need and a sophisticated understanding of the importance of women's participation in STEM disciplines.
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Innovation Consulting Community
College students are provided with a transformational learning experience guided by project mentors with the opportunity to further develop a creative mindset to propose solutions to complex problems and innovation in strategy.
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STEM Extracurricular Opportunities
You don't have to be a STEM major to have fun with STEM! Physics-related activities include the solar car competition, astronomy club, and the trebuchet challenge. Biology-related clubs include BSSA (Biological Sciences Student Association) and the professional fraternity, Phi Sigma. And there is also Chem Club, Geology Club, and the numerous technology-related opportunities.