How Female Researchers are Reshaping the STEM Classroom
STEM researchers operate on the frontiers of science. Their research has the potential to change the world. Unfortunately, the playing field isn’t level for all researchers. The number of women in STEM fields has remained low, even as their numbers have expanded in other, non-science disciplines.
In 2019, women made up 34% of total faculty at University of Houston. Of those, 45% indicated that they were of color. While those numbers may seem low, UH is a leader in employing female women of color as faculty members.
“I’ve always felt there was a need for me to serve as an advocate for diversity and inclusion in physics as well as other STEM fields,” said Dr. Donna Stokes, Professor of Physics and Associate Dean for Undergraduate Affairs and Student Success. “Often, being the only person of color in the room, it was very challenging, and sometimes uncomfortable, to discuss diversity among our faculty and students.”
“It is a struggle,” said Dr. Thamar Solorio, an Associate Professor in NSM’s Department of Computer Science. “But there are many resources available to help as both industry and academia become more and more aware of how to be more inclusive.”
Stokes echoes Solorio’s sentiments.
“Over the years, there has been a lot of progress made, but there’s still work to do to ensure that our faculty and communities have opportunities to make contributions to the scientific world,” said Stokes.
While the world continues to change, both faculty and students must strive not only for academic success but for diversity and inclusion.
“You’re never done learning,” said Solorio. “We always have to keep on top of what’s happening at the frontiers of our field.”
“I hope I can serve as a role model and mentor for our students, and particularly our female students,” said Stokes. “I want them to know that a career in physics or another STEM field is possible.”
“My advice for female students entering a STEM education or industry is just to go for it,” said Dr. Cathy Poliak, ConocoPhillips Instructional Assistant Professor of Data Science in NSM’s math department. “Perseverance pays off.”
Hear from Drs. Stokes, Solorio and Poliak in the video below.