Abstract Detail

Broadening Participation - Recruiting and Retaining Outstanding Scientists in the Botanical Science

Monfils, Anna [1], Sakai, Ann [2].

Broadening Participation - Recruiting and Retaining Outstanding Scientists in the Botanical Sciences.

Many of the upcoming crises facing the U.S. and the planet, such as climate change, loss of biological diversity, invasive species, and sustainable agriculture, will affect future generations. Addressing these issues will require innovative training of young scientists and expertise that crosses traditional discipline boundaries and utilizes new technology, forms of communication and research techniques. These issues also will require the creativity, originality, and participation of a diverse community of scientists. The vitality of the sciences depends upon inclusion of people from the broadest possible base. The purpose of this symposium is to share some of the best practices to encourage recruitment and retention of all students, and particularly URM (underrepresented minority) students. What are the best practices to recruit and retain a diverse community of young scientists who will help maintain the creativity and vitality within the botanical sciences? Are there particular pedagogical methods, curricula, or types of institutional support that are good for all students and especially effective for students from underrepresented groups? How can some of these methods be implemented by instructors at institutions ranging from small teaching institutions to large research universities, and across botanical disciplines? Speakers will discuss successful teaching approaches in the introductory core biology courses, mentoring strategies for students and academics, recruitment of a diverse community of scientists, overcoming the dual hurdles of science and technology as it relates to current digitization initiatives, and curricular and institutional programs to promote diversity in the sciences. We will encourage audience participation on how to apply these ideas to specific botanical disciplines and research initiatives. With a Botany 2013 conference-wide theme of Celebrating Diversity, this symposium seems timely, relevant and of broad appeal to graduate students, postdocs, and faculty.

Broader Impacts:

1 - Central Michigan University, 180 Brooks Hall, Mount Pleasant, MI, 48859, USA, 989-774-2492
2 - University of California-Irvine, Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, 321 STEINHAUS HALL, IRVINE, CA, 92697-2525, USA, 949/824-6581

Keywords:
Broadening Participation
Mentoring
Diversity.

Presentation Type: Symposium or Colloquium Presentation
Session: SY03
Location: Versailles Ballroom/Riverside Hilton
Date: Tuesday, July 30th, 2013
Time: 8:00 AM
Number: SY03SUM
Abstract ID:14
Candidate for Awards:None