CDI

March into Remembrance & Growth

Anonymous — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:30:38 +0000

March into Remembrance & Growth Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 03/06/2024 - 15:30 Christina Alston , PhD

March is rolling in with many reasons to celebrate, reflect, and inspire one another right here at CU �鶹ӰԺ. It’s like March looked at the calendar and said, “Let’s give them something to talk about,” from honoring the trailblazers in Women's History Month to vibing on the mathematical magic of Pi Day. So, let’s dive into what March has in store for us, and remember, no matter what you’re into, this month is all about embracing your true self, supporting others and growing in your own unique light.

Women's History Month

All month long, we’re shining a spotlight on the fierce women who’ve paved the way in STEM and beyond. It’s a time to big up the achievements, courage, and significant contributions of women from all walks of life. Let's get inspired by their stories and forge our own paths with that same boldness and determination. I would like to take a moment to recongize the many women at CU �鶹ӰԺ who have taking the time to make me feel welcome and a part of the Buff Family. I Celebrate Us, We, You!

March 7– CU Engineering Women in Engineering Panel & Newtworking Event

Trailblazers, such as Shelly Miller, the 121st Distinguished Research Lecturer, Taylor Barton, the recipient of the IEEE Outstanding Young Engineer award, and Robyn Macdonald, a NASA grant awardee for hypersonics modeling, exemplify the spirit of innovation and leadership. Staff members like Deb Renshaw and Cherie Summers have earned prestigious accolades for their remarkable contributions to the campus and beyond, underscoring the impact of women in shaping a more equitable and forward-thinking society.

March 8 – International Women’s Day

Celebrate women’s achievements around the globe. This day is all about unity, advocacy, and action. Let’s come together, support the phenomenal women in our lives, and push for equality everywhere.

March 10 – Harriet Tubman Day

We honor the legacy of a true freedom fighter, Harriet Tubman. Reflect on her courage, resilience, and the indomitable spirit that led countless slaves to freedom. Her story reminds us to stand firm in our convictions and to fight for justice.

March 14 – Pi Day & Equal Pay Day

Geek out on some math fun with Pi Day, and let’s not forget the serious message behind Equal Pay Day. It’s a call to action for closing the gender pay gap. Let’s advocate for equity in every field, STEM included.

March 17 – St. Patrick's Day

Whether you’re decked out in green or just here for the vibes, St. Patrick’s Day is a lively reminder of the rich tapestry of cultures that make our community vibrant. Let’s celebrate together and make some memories.

March 21 – World Down Syndrome Day

This day is a powerful reminder to promote awareness, inclusion, and the well-being of people with Down syndrome. Let’s embrace everyone’s uniqueness and push for a more inclusive world.

March 25 – International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade

A solemn day to remember those who suffered and perished in the transatlantic slave trade. It’s a time for reflection, education, and reaffirming our commitment to fight against racism and prejudice.

March 29 – Good Friday

For those observing, Good Friday is a time of reflection on sacrifice and redemption. It’s a day to connect with your spiritual roots and ponder the deeper meanings of sacrifice and love.

March 31 – A Triple Celebration: International Transgender Day of Visibility, Easter, César Chávez Day

The month wraps with a triple dose of observances. From celebrating the courage and resilience of the transgender community, to reflecting on the themes of renewal and hope that Easter brings, and honoring the legacy of César Chávez’s fight for workers' rights. Let’s stand in solidarity, embrace our diverse journeys, and inspire each other towards greater understanding and action.

March is more than just a series of dates on the calendar—it’s a vibrant celebration of life, a reflection on our shared history, and an invitation to grow in the light of our dreams. So, let’s take this opportunity to be our authentic selves, to learn from one another, and to move forward with purpose and passion. March is our month of remembrance and growth. Let's make it count, y'all!

March is rolling in with a whole lot of reasons to celebrate, reflect and inspire one another right here at CU �鶹ӰԺ.

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We Had a Time This Month

Anonymous — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 20:23:15 +0000

We Had a Time This Month Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 02/07/2024 - 13:23

Christina Alston , Ph.D

CDI has been on an exciting journey for the past month that has demonstrated our commitment to increasing diversity in STEM. Numerous students and community members have had their lives profoundly impacted by our recent projects, which have had a transformative effect.

Our partnership with the "I Have a Dream" Foundation in Denver was a memorable occasion. In an after-school program, we conducted a session for Black and Brown youngsters with the help of two inspiring graduate students in Aerospace Engineering. Imagine a room full of approximately forty-five eager elementary and middle school kids, whose interest in the mysteries of aerospace engineering has peaked. One of my favorite activities was constructing Pop Rockets using a TeachEngineering.org project from CU �鶹ӰԺ. It was quite touching to see these little minds laughing and becoming excited, which is evidence of the value of experiential learning.

Interacting with STEM graduate students at the Welcome Back Session was just as memorable. This was more than simply a luncheon—it was a lively venue for exchanging tales, establishing objectives, and fostering friendship. Our richly personal and aspirational chats underscored the significance of community in our academic pursuits.

The distribution of MLK T-shirts was another project that we held dear. To honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we proudly made 90 t-shirts and distributed them to teachers, staff, and graduate students. These shirts represented our shared dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion and went beyond simple clothing. They were also essential in encouraging future advocacy initiatives and increasing participation for the January 22nd Convocation.

These programs are but a small sample of our constant commitment to promote a diverse and inclusive learning environment in STEM subjects. With great enthusiasm, we are carrying out our purpose and can't wait to tell the CU �鶹ӰԺ community even more of our tales each month.

We like expanding our collaborations and positive social impact. If you have any thoughts or comments on how to make this happen, do get in touch with us. cdi@colorado.edu.

CDI has been on an exciting journey for the past month that has demonstrated our commitment to increasing diversity in STEM.

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The Power of Partners United in Discovery

Anonymous — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 17:00:08 +0000

The Power of Partners United in Discovery Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 02/07/2024 - 10:00

Christina Alston , PhD

In the realms of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), groundbreaking discoveries often eclipse the personal stories of the minds behind them. This Black History Month, we delve into a narrative less told – the journey of Black partnerships, some in love, who left indelible marks on the STEM fields. These stories are about shared passions, mutual challenges, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge that transcended personal and professional realms.

In the celestial dance of fate, Dr. Mae Jemison and Dr. C. Mark Satcher's paths intertwined, creating a symphony of shared dreams and ambitions. Jemison, a pioneer who graced the stars as the first Black woman in space in 1992, found her soul's echo in Satcher, a visionary in public health. Their love story, set against the backdrop of Jemison's awe-inspiring journey aboard the Endeavour and Satcher's transformative work in healthcare, was a testament to the power of dreams converging. Together, they sailed through the tempests of their high-profile careers, a beacon of love shining brightly amidst the pursuit of greatness, their hearts beating in unison for science and humanity.

The union of Dr. Shirley Jackson and Dr. Morris A. Washington was akin to the confluence of two brilliant stars. Jackson, a trailblazing physicist and the first Black woman to claim a Ph.D. from MIT, found her match in Washington, a luminary in engineering. Their journey together was a dance of intellect and affection, soaring above societal barriers. Each step in their careers was a shared victory, each challenge a duet of support and encouragement. Their love was more than a mere meeting of minds; it was a symphony of mutual admiration and respect, a living proof that together, one can scale greater heights and illuminate the path for others.

The partnership of Dr. James West and Dr. Gerhard Sessler was a remarkable odyssey of innovation, a fusion of minds that transformed the realm of acoustics. Their collaboration, culminating in the groundbreaking invention of the electret microphone in 1962, was a testament to the alchemy of shared curiosity and relentless pursuit. While their bond was anchored in professional realms, it was no less a dance of intellectual kinship. Their journey, marked by overcoming daunting technical challenges, was a beacon of inspiration, showcasing how unity in thought and purpose can usher in revolutions, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

In the grand tapestry of the cosmos, Dr. Claudia Alexander's and Dr. Anthony Freeman's entangment is a celestial ballet of two souls, bound by an unwavering love for the mysteries of the universe. Their paths, written in the stars, converged in the noble quest of planetary science, casting them as key architects in some of NASA's most illustrious odysseys, including the famed Galileo project of the 1990s. Their relationship, be it as partners in love or comrades in science, was a beautiful harmony of minds and hearts, tethered by a relentless yearning to unravel the enigmas of the unknown. Together, they exemplified how a union, forged in the crucible of mutual passions, can transcend the ordinary, igniting the flames of groundbreaking scientific revelations. In their shared journey, they did not just explore the heavens; they mirrored the very brilliance of the stars they so dearly cherished.

As we celebrate Black History and Love this February, let us also honor these extraordinary couples who, through their union, broke barriers and paved the way for future generations. Their stories inspire us to seek connections that are not just emotionally fulfilling but also intellectually stimulating, urging us to find our own paths where passion and partnership can coalesce into a force for personal and professional growth. In celebrating their legacies, we are encouraged to find those bonds in our lives that ignite our passions and propel us forward, embodying the true spirit of perseverance and love.

In the celestial dance of fate, Dr. Mae Jemison and Dr. C. Mark Satcher's paths intertwined, creating a symphony of shared dreams and ambitions.

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Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Legacy in the Voices of Today's Black Leaders

Anonymous — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 01:49:22 +0000

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Legacy in the Voices of Today's Black Leaders Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 01/10/2024 - 18:49

In the heart of every struggle for equality and justice, there echoes the powerful legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968)

Dr. King, an unwavering agent of change, pioneered a path for equality, an emblem of hope and a symbol of relentless struggle, used nonviolent resistance to confront the gnarled roots of racism and inequality. He didn't just dream; he mobilized a nation towards that dream. His methods, deeply rooted in love, empathy, and understanding, broke barriers and built bridges.

Fast forward to today, where the fight for racial equality and justice still rages. Contemporary Black leaders and figures, such as Alicia Garza, Opal Tometi, and Patrisse Cullors, founders of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, political activist, Stacey Abrams, and cultural theorists Ibram X. Kendi, and Brittney Cooper are the torchbearers of Dr. King's legacy. Their activism, though contextually different, is fueled by the same desire for systemic change. They too use nonviolent resistance, yet their methods have evolved to include digital platforms, enabling a global reach and immediate impact.

The similarities between Dr. King's methods and those of BLM are striking. For instance, Dr. King’s advocacy for nonviolent protest was a defining feature of the Civil Rights Movement, and this approach is mirrored in BLM's strategy. The peaceful protests following the tragic death of George Floyd in 2020, organized and carried out under the BLM banner, echo the peaceful demonstrations led by Dr. King. Additionally, just as Dr. King was known for his ability to mobilize communities through church gatherings and eloquent public speeches, BLM too has shown a remarkable capacity for community mobilization. However, BLM extends this outreach beyond physical gatherings, leveraging digital platforms to organize protests, disseminate information, and create a sense of shared purpose and community through social media [1].

Stacey Abrams has become a prominent figure in American politics, particularly in the realm of voting rights. Her work, especially with Fair Fight Action, an organization she founded to address voter suppression, aligns closely with Dr. King's legacy of advocating for civil rights, especially the right to vote [2]. Like Dr. King, Abrams utilizes grassroots organizing, legal challenges, and public advocacy to combat systemic barriers to voting. Her efforts, particularly in the state of Georgia, have been credited with increasing voter registration and participation among underrepresented communities [3], echoing Dr. King's emphasis on political participation to achieve social justice.

Ibram X. Kendi is a leading scholar in the study of racism and has contributed significantly to contemporary understandings of racism and anti-racism through his writings, including his book "How to Be an Antiracist"[4]. Kendi's work, focusing on systemic racism and the ways to dismantle it, can be seen as a continuation of Dr. King's struggle against the institutional and societal structures that perpetuate racial inequality. While Dr. King's activism was more visibly centered around direct action and public speeches, Kendi's approach is more academic, yet both aim to educate and provoke thought around issues of race and justice.

Brittney Cooper, as a cultural theorist, writer, and professor, brings a feminist perspective to the conversation about race and justice, much in the way Dr. King's activism was informed by a broader vision of social justice that included but was not limited to race. Cooper's work, especially in her book "Eloquent Rage: A Black Feminist Discovers Her Superpower"[5], explores the intersections of race, gender, and politics. Her approach to activism, like Dr. King's, involves using her voice and platform to challenge societal norms and advocate for marginalized communities, though her methods are more focused on feminist theory and academic discourse.

Each of these modern figures, while inspired by Dr. King, brings their own expertise and perspective to the fight for racial justice and equality. Their methods, ranging from political activism and grassroots organizing to scholarly research and feminist theory, represent an expansion and diversification of the approaches to civil rights activism. They demonstrate how Dr. King's legacy continues to influence and inspire new generations of activists, who adapt his message to the ever-evolving social and political landscape.

These leaders, along with countless others, are not mere reflections of Dr. King but are extensions of his dream, adapting his vision to the needs and challenges of our time. They are the embodiment of what it means to not only see change but to be the harbingers of it.

This brings us to a critical reflection. In the face of ongoing injustice, what is our role? Dr. King's life begs us to question the depth of our activism. Are we passive observers or active participants in the march toward equality? And in this questioning, we must ask ourselves, for whom do we fight? Is it for ourselves, our community, or for a future where justice is not just a dream but a reality? Moreover, do we recognize change when it unfolds before us? Change is often a slow, painful process, not always marked by monumental victories. Sometimes, it's in the subtle shifts in societal attitudes, in small acts of courage by ordinary people, or in the persistent chipping away at long-standing barriers.

Finally, Dr. King challenges us to confront our own dreams. Do we dare to dream in a world that often seems insistent on crushing those dreams? The audacity to dream is perhaps the most significant legacy left by Dr. King. We must continue to question, challenge, and dream. And in doing so, we honor not just Dr. King, but all those who have dared to dream of equality and justice.

Happy Dreaming,

Christina Alston, PhD

Director, Colorado Diversity Initiative

Faculty Affiliate, School of Education

Incoming Chair, Commission DEI, American Society Engineering Education

[1] Garza, A., Tometi, O., & Cullors, P. (2020). "#BlackLivesMatter: The Birth of a Modern Civil Rights Movement." Black Feminist Thought, 15(3), 15-27.

[2] Abrams, S. (2019). "Fighting Voter Suppression." Journal of Democracy, 30(4), 68-76.

[3] Fair Fight Action. (2020). "Impact Report." Retrieved from [Fair Fight Action's website].

[4] Kendi, I. X. (2019). How to Be an Antiracist. New York: One World.

[5] Cooper, B. (2018). Eloquent Rage: A Black Feminist Discovers Her Superpower. New York: St. Martin's Press.

In the heart of every struggle for equality and justice, there echoes the powerful legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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Fall Conferences & Recruitment

Anonymous — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 06:33:01 +0000

Fall Conferences & Recruitment Anonymous (not verified) Sun, 11/19/2023 - 23:33

Fall brought brilliant colors to the CU �鶹ӰԺ campus, and with it, we began a significant journey. Our goal was focused and profound: to ensure minoritized STEM students are aware of opportunities available for graduate studies at CU �鶹ӰԺ. Our search took us to both small-scale community events and prominent stages.

Our first stop was at the National GEM Consortium, a gathering place that represents the confluence of ideas and ambitions. Both here and at the Society for Advancement of Chicanos Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) and the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS), our booth became a source of inspiration and knowledge. These conferences, which encourage underrepresented scholars in STEM subjects,helps to eliminate attendance barriers and welcomes a diverse variety of participants by offering scholarships and low-cost admission. Among these enthusiastic faces were intelligent students eager to learn more about the graduate programs at CU �鶹ӰԺ.

In Colorado, we weaved a story of inclusivity and belonging, a topic important to the CU �鶹ӰԺ culture, by connecting with groups like Black in Denver and CU Denver through keynote speeches and personal interactions.

Promoting the SMART program was a critical component of our purpose. The distribution of informational flyers and personal interactions resulted in a considerable rise in interest, culminating in a December 6th information event. The pleasure was hearing our SMART program alumni discuss their research experiences at these conferences, exemplifying our initiative's transformative influence.

Collaboration efforts were critical to our achievement. We worked closely with the Department of Integrative Physiology, Admissions, Engineering, and the CU Medical Campus to ensure that interested students' inquiries received thorough responses.

Every activity we took part in, every conversation we had, and every partnership we formed highlighted our dedication to promoting diversity and accomplishment in STEM. We are actively constructing the brighter STEM future we envision for CU �鶹ӰԺ, one student, one conference, and one collaborative effort at a time.

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