Laying the Groundwork: The Status of Women Faculty at an Institution in Transition

Southern Illinois University At Edwardsville, Edwardsville IL

Investigators

Abstract

Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville (SIUE) is a comprehensive university located in the greater St. Louis metropolitan region. The institution proposes to implement an ADVANCE IT Catalyst project that would focus on an effort to develop a systematic and integrative effort to address the persistent under-representation of women and under-represented minority women in STEM disciplines. Specifically, this project will: (a) compile and analyze baseline data regarding women?s representation and advancement in STEM discipline; (b) carry out institutional buy-in activities and strategies, especially among departmental chairs; (c) conduct targeted surveys, qualitative interviews, and concept mapping; (d) analyze current policies; (e) conduct site visits to other ADVANCE institutions; and (f) offer events on campus to promote awareness of issues relevant to creating gender equity on campus. Intellectual Merit: This project proposes to utilize a unique methodological approach called concept mapping that will provide a useful tool for the investigation of questions and issues surrounding barriers to the career advancement of women faculty. Additionally, this project will focus on networks as a mechanism to empower women, improve access to information, and foster institutional change. Broader Impacts: SIUE will provide an ideal site for a case study as an institution in transition and, with an ADVANCE IT Catalyst project, will be poised to develop analytical paradigms and exemplary intervention strategies for institutions in similar states of transition. Project findings will be disseminated broadly to diverse institutions of higher education in the immediate geographical area and to other peer institutions around the country as well.