To represent its population, the nation should have a diverse science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce. It is known that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) serve as key producers of minority STEM graduates. As such, HBCUs have contributed to the diverse workforce. Therefore, this chapter examined the role of presidents at HBCUs in broadening participation in STEM fields. Presidents at four HBCUs participated in a semi-structured interview. The four academic leadership frames (structural, human resources, political, and symbolic) were used to explain the factors that have contributed to HBCUs' success rates. Identified factors were providing students with research and internship opportunities, having an adequate STEM curriculum, having appropriate faculty and personnel at the institution, having financial resources, and creating an environment that was nurturing and supportive of students.
The Role of a Professional Society in Broadening Participation in Science: A National Model for Increasing Persistence
