Nebraska becomes Association for Women in Science institutional partner

News for Researchers

Posted May 24, 2017 by Ashley Washburn

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln announced in May that it is an institutional partner of the Association for Women in Science, the United States’ largest multidisciplinary organization for women in science, mathematics, engineering and technology.

Becoming an institutional partner demonstrates Nebraska’s commitment to supporting and promoting diversity in STEM through professional development and leadership training for faculty and students.

“The Association for Women in Science works with institutions like ours to create a culture that not only values and respects all people but also encourages risk taking and open mindedness,” said Steve Goddard, interim vice chancellor for research and economic development. “These are the attributes we need to solve the complex challenges of today.”

Nebraska became an AWIS affiliate in 2015. After identifying a need for a campus chapter, a steering committee led by School of Natural Resources faculty and graduate students organized activities and spearheaded the university’s effort to become a full partner.

Faculty and students are encouraged to pursue professional development opportunities offered through the university’s partnership.

A nine-member steering committee will lead the university’s AWIS activities. Current members are Judy Walker, interim associate vice chancellor for faculty affairs; Deb Hamernik, interim associate vice chancellor for research; and Mary Bomberger Brown, research assistant professor in the School of Natural Resources. The university is selecting six additional faculty members to serve on the steering committee for one- or two-year terms.

As a result of Nebraska’s partnership with AWIS, all undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in a STEM program are eligible for a one-year free membership. Students are encouraged to register online using their unl.edu email address. Membership benefits include a subscription to the award-winning AWIS Magazine; e-newsletters on topics related to careers, education, science and technology; access to the AWIS Career Center; and training webinars on leadership and talent development.


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