Science outreach efforts are being spearheaded at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), a research institution known for its contributions to various scientific fields. Among these initiatives, the UC Davis Graduate Student and Postdoc chapter of The Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (GSPD SACNAS) has gained national recognition for promoting STEM diversity and community building.
“Science outreach is an effort to share knowledge and information to everyone in our community,” the chapter states. This endeavor is essential for fostering curiosity, building trust in science, and dismantling barriers within communities. It addresses the need for underrepresented minority students in STEM to have role models, showing that individuals from diverse backgrounds can thrive in these fields.
Tess Leathers, a fifth-year Ph.D. student, serves as one of the K-8 outreach officers. She works with Woodland Prairie Elementary School, introducing science activities to students and giving them hands-on experience in scientific inquiry. Leathers’ fellow graduate student volunteers share their own research experiences, making science more accessible and engaging for young learners.
For older students, Deana Villagomes, a fourth-year Ph.D. student, leads high school outreach efforts by conducting workshops on topics such as bioinformatics. This allows high school students in West Sacramento to gain insights into complex scientific processes and the potential careers that follow.
At the community college level, Clarisa Martinez, also a fourth-year Ph.D. student, organizes programs such as the Bridge to Science event. Martinez’s work includes providing educational panels and facilitating research experiences, aiding community college students in their pursuit of science degrees.
In addition to these programs, UC Davis undergraduates are offered mentorship through initiatives such as the Graduate School Readiness Program, launched by Jasmine Esparza. This program assists students in preparing graduate school applications and interviews by matching them with graduate student mentors.
The GSPD SACNAS chapter encourages scientists and scholars to join their mission to enhance STEM inclusiveness at UC Davis. Opportunities include becoming a general member, following their activities on social media, and engaging directly with their outreach efforts by joining or shadowing the board.
