This year has been a whirlwind and, as we approach year end, many of us at EiE and the Museum of Science are reflecting on what 2020 has brought us. While no one could have prepared for the far-reaching impacts of the global coronavirus pandemic, we are touched by the ways our community has adapted and responded to such an uncertain time.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, we’ve gathered a list of organizations working to promote Indigenous and Native excellence in STEM, from students at the university level to professionals throughout their careers. Some include paid memberships and events, others have 100% free resources for students and professionals seeking information about advancement in their field.

As part of our celebration of Latinx Heritage month, we examined representation of Latin American students in STEM education and career fields. Looking at retention and advancement rates for Indigenous and Hispanic specialists in various fields and degree paths, we’ve seen some areas for improvement and some exciting strides toward equity in science, technology engineering and math.

November 18th is PRIDE in STEM day! This exciting STEM holiday started in 2016 as a celebration of the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities in STEM fields and we’re excited to support their mission!

Last week, in partnership with the Massachusetts STEM Advisory Council and the Executive Office of Education, we celebrated Mass STEM Week 2020 with you!

We offered a full schedule of events including office hours with the Museum of Science and EiE team, mentoring sessions with Engineers and Scientists from across the state of Massachusetts, and a celebration webinar featuring Massachusetts’ Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito and Secretary of Education James Peyser.

Read more to learn about or find recordings of the Engineering Design Challenges, Engineer and Scientist Mentor sessions, and Mass STEM Week Celebration Webinar.