Dr. Molloy, a renowned education expert, is at the helm of a groundbreaking $3.5 million program aimed at increasing the representation of students of color in STEM fields. The initiative, which kicked off this year, is a collaborative effort between the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).
The program, titled “STEM-UP! (STEM Unified Pipeline for Underserved Populations),” aims to identify and nurture talented students from underrepresented groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Native Hawaiians, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The program’s ambitious goals include increasing the number of students of color in STEM-related fields, improving academic performance, and supporting graduates in their transition to higher education and the workforce. To achieve this, Dr. Molloy and her team are working closely with local school districts, community organizations, and industry partners to create a comprehensive network of support systems.
One key component of the program is the development of after-school STEM programs, which will provide students with hands-on training and mentorship in cutting-edge technologies such as coding, robotics, and data analysis. Additionally, the program will offer summer internships and job shadowing opportunities, allowing students to gain practical experience in STEM fields.
Molloy is confident that the program will have a significant impact on the representation of students of color in STEM. “By providing these students with the right resources, support, and opportunities, we can empower them to break down barriers and succeed in fields that are critical to our nation’s future,” she said.
The STEM-UP! program is a much-needed initiative in a country where, according to the National Science Foundation, only 34% of African Americans and 23% of Hispanics hold a bachelor’s degree in STEM fields. With Dr. Molloy at the helm, this program is poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young students and pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive STEM workforce.