Pitt joins initiative to develop more diversity among faculty in STEM fields

The University of Pittsburgh is joining an initiative to develop a more diverse and inclusive STEM faculty.

Pitt is one of 19 universities joining a three-year program to develop inclusive faculty recruitment, hiring and retention. The Aspire: The National Alliance for Inclusive & Diverse STEM Faculty program is facilitated by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

This new group of 19 universities will join two earlier cohorts, bringing the tally of participating universities to 54.

“It is an honor to be recognized by the APLU and we look forward to the collaborations and new learning that will emerge as we participate in the alliance,” Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor Ann E. Cudd said. “Through our participation in this STEM-focused program we hope to deepen and develop strategies to support diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging for our faculty and students in all fields.”

The program will help Pitt navigate a self-assessment of current practices and provide support for institutional change through its Institutional Change (IChange) Network.

The Aspire Alliance will bolster Pitt’s efforts to increase STEM diversity and inclusion through work in the Discipline-Based Science Education Research Center, University Center for Teaching and Learning and Broadening Equity in STEM (BE STEM).

Pitt boasts 76 STEM departments, seven schools with a STEM focus, and approximately 4,500 STEM faculty.

“The goals of the Aspire Alliance align strongly with the goals, aspirations and commitments of the University of Pittsburgh as highlighted in our Strategic Plan,” John Wallace, vice provost for faculty diversity and development, said. “Pitt’s participation in the Aspire Alliance will enhance our efforts to increase diversity, equity and inclusion across STEM disciplines.”