Underrepresentation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields by individuals of low socioeconomic status (SES) is a long-standing concern. The NexSTEM Program, funded by a 5-year National Science Foundation S-STEM multi-consortia grant to Heartland Community College, Illinois State university, and Illinois Wesleyan University, which are all in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, aims to address these inequities by providing need-based scholarships, early STEM research experiences, and multi-level mentoring for STEM majors who demonstrate academic potential and come from low SES households. The program also allows scholars to port their scholarships between the three institutions if they transfer. The structure of the program, demographics of the participants, significance of the program's activities to the participants, persistence rates, and lessons learned will be discussed.

NexSTEM: A community assets program that fosters the next generation of STEM leaders

Where thousands of chemistry professionals meet to share ideas and advance scientific and technical knowledge. Spring 2023 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch at the end of March.

ACS Spring 2023

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.