MatSE is dedicated to building an inclusive culture that warmly welcomes individuals from all backgrounds. As a top-ranked program, we thrive on the partnerships between faculty, staff, students, and researchers that promote a well-rounded academic experience and generate innovative research opportunities. Our goal is to foster a diverse community that encourages collaboration, belonging, academic success, and research excellence. We believe that by embracing diversity and inclusion, we can create an environment where everyone can flourish and make significant contributions.
It is important to us to offer an accessible and world-class educational experience to every student in MatSE. Today, our focus is on creating equity, eliminating opportunity gaps, building a “materials” community, and addressing some of the world's most challenging social issues.
Several times throughout the year, the MatSE Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) committee offers events or partners with other organizations on campus to bring events to students, faculty, and staff. A few of this past year’s events included a trip to the Palmer Museum of Art for a tour highlighting Black artists, a celebration of all cultures that observe the Lunar New Year, and a luncheon at the Materials Research Institute honoring the legacy of women in materials science and engineering at Penn State.
Another initiative MatSE is proud to be a part of is the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS) Rainbow Network. We believe the best science emerges when our researchers can bring their whole selves to the team. The Rainbow EMS Network fosters a fully inclusive environment and identifies research groups that have received advanced training in LGBTQ+ issues through the Safer People Safer Places Network at Penn State.
The DEIB activities in MatSE are supported by the 115th Anniversary Fund, which demonstrates a shared interest in these efforts from alumni, faculty, and friends of the department, and we are well on our way to establishing this permanent source of funding. Our plan is for this fund to support the engagement opportunities and inclusive social events discussed above, in addition to visits from guest speakers to help enhance diversity education and create a sense of belonging in perpetuity. Initially kicked off in fall 2022, this effort will continue through the end of the year. To join your fellow alumni, faculty, and friends with contributions to this fund, please visit this online giving link. Gifts received before December 31, 2023, will be recognized on the MatSE DEIB website and on a commemorative plaque to be displayed in the department.
To learn more, visit the DEIB section of our website or view our event videos on our YouTube channel.