NASA Allocates Over $7 Million to Encourage 'Diversity'

Brendan McDonald has reported that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is providing $7.2 million to several universities with the aim of promoting “diversity” in specific fields.

Boosting Diversity in STEM Fields

On September 19, NASA stated in a press release that the funds are intended to expand initiatives in engineering-related disciplines and fields. The focus is on learners who have historically been underrepresented and underserved in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.

Universities Receiving Funds

The six universities that will be receiving the funds are Alabama A&M, Morgan State–Baltimore, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State, Central Florida, Colorado-Denver, and Houston Universities.

Encouraging Greater Diversity

Shahra Lambert, NASA’s senior advisor for engagement and equity, applauded the announcement of the grants. She expressed her excitement about NASA awarding funding to six minority-serving institutions, which will pave the way for greater diversity in engineering and STEM. She emphasized that NASA is committed to promoting diversity and providing essential academic resources to empower the next generation of innovators.

NASA's Office Dedicated to DEI

NASA has an office dedicated to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity's website states that diversity and inclusion are integral to mission success at NASA and that their commitment to these principles helps ensure fairness and equity in decision making.

Other Federal Agencies Granting Funds Based on DEI Principles

Previously, it has been reported that other federal agencies have also granted funds based on DEI principles. The National Science Foundation, for instance, has provided millions of dollars to promote DEI, including a $3.5 million grant to increase diversity in STEM at Molloy University in New York and $4.5 million for Louisiana State University for the formation of a “Center for Equity in Faculty Advancement.”

Department of Education's Commitment to Equity

In August, the Department of Education announced that it would distribute more than $40 million to higher education institutions to “advance equity or participant outcomes.” In March, it was reported that the National Institutes of Health uses a commitment to diversity to help determine which researchers at colleges and universities would receive taxpayer funds. NASA and each school that received money from the grants have been contacted for comment.

Bottom Line

The move by NASA to provide substantial funding to promote diversity in STEM fields is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable academic environment. The initiative not only benefits underrepresented learners but also contributes to the broader goal of fostering diversity and inclusion in the sciences. What are your thoughts on this initiative? Do you believe it will have a significant impact on diversity in STEM fields? Feel free to share this article with your friends and join the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, available every day at 6pm.