ADVANCE AU: Assessing Gender and Racial Equity Among STEM Faculty

American University, Washington DC

Investigators

Abstract

American University (AU) will implement an ADVANCE Catalyst project: 1) to undertake the collection and synthesis of quantitative and qualitative faculty data with attention to intersectional perspectives as well as non-tenure track faculty; 2) to review structures, policies and procedures that impact equity among faculty in STEM; and 3) to develop and disseminate a STEM Faculty Equity Plan that is aligned with the university-wide Strategic Plan and Inclusive Excellence Plan. AU is a medium-sized, urban, private research university and will be a model for other similar institutions. This two-year project will prepare the university for future data collection and data analyses of faculty equity which can be used by institutional leadership to inform decision-making. The Catalyst work will also prepare the institution to implement evidence-based strategies to enhance the university climate for all faculty which will be outlined in a five-year faculty equity strategic plan that will be produced as part of this project. The NSF ADVANCE program is designed to foster gender equity through a focus on the identification and elimination of organizational barriers that impede the full participation and advancement of diverse faculty in academic institutions. Organizational barriers that inhibit equity may exist in policies, processes, practices, and the organizational culture and climate. ADVANCE "Catalyst" awards provide support for institutional equity assessments and the development of five-year faculty equity strategic plans at an academic, non-profit institution of higher education. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.