Louis Stokes Center for Promotion of Academic Careers (LS-PAC Models)

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LS-PAC MODELS
VISION : To create a successful nationwide model with well-tested strategies for increasing underrepresented minority (URM) student preparation for academic careers.
MISSION :

  • Increase the quality and number of URM STEM students pursuing doctoral degrees

  • Increase the retention to graduation rate of URM STEM PhD students

  • Develop a national model for increasing the number of URM STEM PhD recipients

  • Develop a model for increasing the placement of minority PhD holders into the professoriate

GOALS :

  • To facilitate systemic mentoring through a multimedia application that includes effective faculty-to-student/student-to-student interactions that work collectively to increase the number of URMs earning PhD degrees in STEM fields.

  • Provide academic support structures through workshops that increase students’ acclimations to the rigors of doctoral study.

  • To promote, guide, and support the transition of these PhD degree-holders into the STEM research workforce with emphasis on the professoriate through hierarchical mentoring across the Southeastern (SE) U.S.

  • To achieve self-sustainability through expansion and institutionalization of systemic mentoring and activities within the LS-AMP alliance through broad participation, (virtually and at workshops and conferences) with the idea that local and national industry would take the lead on the initiative.

  • To study social and network strengths in successful students (engagement, connectivity).

The image shows how the LS-PAC MODELS center (in partnership with LSU, LS-LAMP Louisiana Alliance, and IBM) will serve as a focal point and national model for aiding in diversification of the STEM professoriate, primarily through establishing and maintain a comprehensive database for mentoring (research activities). The database will involve creation of a global and diverse network of STEM Role Models (PhDs, Graduate Students, and Senior-level undergraduates), who will serve as mentors and/or mentees for participants involved in the Center. The Center will work with other LS-AMP Alliances and Other Institutions as well as organizations, networks, and corporate partners. The Center will also participate in outreach and broadening participation activities. These efforts will create enhanced pathways toward academic career