Current time at conference location: 10:02 am CT
Wednesday, January 10, 2024 | 10:00 AM CT - 11:30 AM CT
Session ID
320
Session Title
The Committee on the Status of Minorities in Astronomy Presents: Effective Partnerships with HBCUs in Astronomy
Session Type
Special Session
Room
222
Summary
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have produced the nation’s most African American and Black graduates with undergraduate physics degrees in the United States. Only thirty of HBCUs offer degrees in physics. While HBCUs play a vital role in matriculating Black students in astronomy and the space adjacent fields, students and faculty are often presented with the lack of opportunities and resources in comparison to Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). This creates systemic barriers and challenges for students and faculty. These outstanding obstacles continuously cause issues for students' educational requirements and consequently allowing them to solely rely on other resources. Over the past several years, many institutions have begun implementing successful programs designated specifically for HBCU students in astronomy. In this session organized by the AAS Committee on the Status of Minorities in Astronomy (CSMA), we will discuss the importance of providing avenues for HBCU students, reducing challenges, and partnerships that allow HBCU students to enter the space workforce. We will also have a panel discussion from those who are a part of these influential partnerships and communities.

Presentations