The Office of Graduate Diversity and Program Climate in the Chemical Sciences is hosting a Fall Seminar Series open to all graduate students, post docs, and faculty in Chemistry or Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. These seminars will be held every first Friday of each month and will focus on topics centered around Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging.
These are brown bag lunch style seminars/mini workshops, so bring your own lunch and come ready to engage in fruitful discussions. See a description of each seminar below.
September 1: Neurodiversity Cultural Competency
Dr. Jeanne Kramer, Director of The Autism Program (TAP) at UIUC and the Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative (I-N-I) will define neurodiversity in the context of autistic strengths, traits, facts, myths, supports, and practical ways of inclusion and accommodation in the classroom, workplace, and peer environment. Campus resources for tips on inclusivity and resources for neurodivergent students will be discussed.
September 20: GEM Fellowship discussion
In a Q&A discussion format, current GEM fellows in Chemistry and ChBE will be sharing their experiences in the program including insights on the application process and professional development opportunities. GEM is a national organization that provides graduate school funding, internships, and an amazing professional network for students from underrepresented groups. Senior undergrads and current graduate students in STEM fields are eligible. Learn more about GEM here: https://www.gemfellowship.org/gem-fellowship-program/#a
October 6: Values Assessment: Identifying your strengths in STEM
The first half of this workshop will provide attendees with the opportunity to take an assessment to identify their strengths. These strengths are the positive parts of your identity that make you feel authentic and engaged. The second half will focus on how to use those strengths to be a better communicator, mentor, advisor, ally and/or advocate in STEM.
November 3: Mental Health Disparities: Culturally Responsive Support
In collaboration with UIUC’s Counseling Center, this presentation will focus on the mental health disparities with respect to students from underrepresented groups (including race/ethnic minorities, women, and LGBTQ+ populations) in higher education. Campus and community resources, as well as ways of reducing mental health strain on students and providing support will be discussed.
December 1: Wellness Checking in with yourself and others
More details will be announced closer to the seminar date.