The document outlines the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) ongoing strategies and initiatives to bolster institutional diversity and broaden participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Presented by Dr. Alicia J. Knoedler, Head of NSF’s Office of Integrative Activities (OIA), the content describes the NSF’s university-like organizational structure and the OIA’s central role in facilitating cross-cutting programs that address diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Notable programs include EPSCoR, HBCU Excellence in Research, Major Research Instrumentation, Mid-Scale Research Infrastructure, Growing Convergence Research, and Science and Technology Centers, all targeted at expanding research capacity and participation nationally, particularly among underrepresented groups and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs).
The NSF has established a set of strategic pillars to strengthen research, incorporate the “missing millions” into the STEM workforce, and advance partnerships. Detailed metrics indicate that although MSIs represent 13% of NSF-funded institutions and receive about 12% of NSF’s award portfolio, their proposal and funding rates are on par with the NSF-wide average. The agency has set an annual performance goal to increase proposals from underrepresented groups and underserved institutions by 10% by September 2023. In alignment with recommendations from the Committee on Equal Opportunities in Science and Engineering (CEOSE), NSF seeks to transform DEI efforts from project-based approaches to institution-wide infrastructure development. The presentation highlights both directorate-specific and cross-directorate programs, such as GRANTED, which aims to reduce barriers, enhance research administration, and support minority-serving and underserved institutions through dedicated funding and capacity-building activities. Overall, the NSF’s approach is multifaceted, emphasizing sustained institutional change, inclusivity, and equitable access to research opportunities across the national STEM landscape.
