Enhancing Diversity in STEM Careers Through Mentored Training (2024-2025)
In response to the systemic exclusion of underrepresented students from STEM fields, particularly in environmental health, the Health and Environmental Scholars Program (HESP) at Duke University aimed to foster equity by mentoring Durham Public School high school students through a year-long curriculum integrating environmental science, health and college readiness. Building on previous work, the 2024–2025 team implemented a comprehensive program titled “Stewardship for a Lifetime,” offering hands-on learning modules, field trips, guest speakers and lab experiences. Undergraduate and graduate mentors led 17 sessions with 43 students from six schools, focusing on environmental justice, sustainability and community stewardship.
The curriculum included real-world activities such as forestry data collection, pipetting in a cancer lab, and studying plastic pollution and renewable energy at Eco-Innovation Park. Students received individualized support through college application advising and long-term mentoring relationships. Survey data showed statistically significant increases in student confidence around career goals, STEM interest and connection to community. Students highlighted the value of engaging, hands-on experiences and exposure to diverse professionals passionate about environmental solutions.
To measure impact, the team administered pre- and post-program surveys and conducted qualitative interviews, with findings contributing to a peer-reviewed manuscript analyzing three years of program data. The team also strengthened institutional partnerships with Durham Public Schools, the Duke Cancer Institute and local environmental organizations. Looking forward, HESP plans to streamline its curriculum for classroom integration, expand its teacher network, and broaden mentoring opportunities by engaging volunteers from regional colleges.
Timing
Summer 2024 – Summer 2025
Team Outputs
Implemented comprehensive curriculum
Mentored high school students through educational programming
Administered pre- and post-program surveys to evaluate effectiveness of programming
Peer-reviewed manuscript in development
See earlier related team, Enhancing Diversity in STEM Careers Through Mentored Training (2022-2023).