SRU hosts program for underrepresented students in STEM fields

Aug. 29, 2024

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - Jobs in science, technology, engineering and math are in high demand. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, STEM-related occupations are expected to grow by almost 11% by 2031. Slippery Rock University is aiding in that growth by offering programs like the Keystone Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation STEM program.

Funded by the National Science Foundation, the alliance includes SRU and four other universities from Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education: Millersville, East Stroudsburg and West Chester. They have joined forces to offer the Keystone LSAMP program to create a nurturing environment for students enrolled in their universities from traditionally underrepresented minority backgrounds.

"The key goal of LSAMP is to increase America's STEM workforce by increasing STEM participation in traditionally underrepresented minorities," said Evan Guiney, an SRU associate professor of biology and the LSAMP program director. "If we are successful, more minority STEM students will graduate from SRU. To accomplish this goal, in addition to involving the students in research, our bridge program has focused on math preparedness and a sense of community and belonging."

The first cohort of students at SRU includes eight students and two student mentors.

Beginning with the Keystone LSAMP Summer Bridge Program, which took place Aug. 12-22 at SRU, this first component is designed to ease the transition into higher education by offering students the chance to settle into university life while engaging in preparatory activities.

With the added benefits of room and board and an early move-in date, students took part in quantitative skills boot camp in math, computers and software, and the science of learning, while gaining practical experience through hands-on activities in engineering labs and research projects across biology, math, physics and engineering. Students also enjoyed activities such as a ropes courses, movie and game nights, and visits to SRU's Macoskey Center for Sustainability Education and Research.

"Getting the program off the ground for the first time this summer was a big job, and it was fantastic to see it all come together over two weeks just before the fall semester began," said Guiney. "We also did a lot of fun stuff, including a trip to the Butler Starlight Drive-In, an evening at SRU's planetarium, a cookout and campfire at the campus ski lodge, multiple board game evenings, a hike at McConnells Mill State Park and a trip to the Mystery Mayhem escape room."

As students transition into the 2024-25 academic year, the Keystone LSAMP program continues its support through peer mentors, seminars and events focused on personal and professional development.

"When I found out my calculus teacher was one of my mentors, I felt so relieved," said Ty Johnson, a freshman civil engineering major from Pittsburgh. "After class, I went to him and was able to ask for help without feeling scared. He genuinely wants me to succeed and cares about my future."

The Keystone LSAMP experience for this year's cohort culminates next summer, when students can partner with a SRU professor on a one-month research opportunity within their major. This phase includes a $2,500 stipend, room and board and the chance to present their research at state, regional or national conferences.

In their second year, Keystone LSAMP participants can give back by mentoring incoming freshmen. They are also well-positioned to apply for competitive nationwide summer undergraduate research experiences.

"I can't wait to be a mentor," said Johnson. "I love helping people and I think as a mentor I can make others happy and motivate them to stay in the program.

More information about the Keystone LSAMP program at SRU is available on the program's webpage or by emailing Evan Guiney at [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT: Aaliyah Thomas | 724.738.4854 | [email protected]