New national alliance commits to expanding access to STEMM education

Seeking fundamental changes in access to and equity in science, technology, engineering, math and medicine (STEMM) education, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and participants from across sectors met and sought ways to ensure the STEMM ecosystem is equitable and inclusive. OSTP, along with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), and with support from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation (DDCF), have launched the STEMM Opportunity Alliance (SOA), a national initiative to lead and coordinate this and future cross-sector action to achieve equity across STEMM fields. To date, more than $4 million has been committed to launch SOA with more than 90 partners signing onto the effort.

SOA outlined five key areas for action that will help bring about change and “ensure the diversity that is necessary for the increased performance and innovative ideas that are needed to keep the United States competitive.” They include:

• Foster a more just society by ensuring greater access to opportunities for economic prosperity;
• Coordinate a national effort across many sectors;
• Ensure scientific excellence;
• Maintain U.S. growth and competitiveness; and,
• Invest and scale.

Organizations interested in joining the SOA are encouraged to fill out an interest form.