UC Davis and the College of Engineering are poised to lead the conversation around empowering underrepresented minorities in STEM fields and help create a culture of change.
Assistant Professor of Computer Science Setareh Rafatirad was announced as a recipient of the 2023 Chancellor's Fellowships for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion by Chancellor Gary S. May and the Academic Senate's Committee on Affirmative Action and Diversity.
Mechanical and aerospace engineering undergraduate student Angel Fernando Meza Terriquez's fascination with astronomy and the study of space began at an early age but he encountered unique challenges during his time at UC Davis. With the support and resources given at AvenueE, Terriquez was able to overcome those to pursue his passion.
"I knew I wanted to take part in space exploration given that space still holds a lot of mysteries," he said.
“I have gained so much support from AvenueE, and I would not be in the academic and professional position that I am in today without them,” Arroyo Donjuan said. “AvenueE has facilitated my access to multiple resources such as tutoring, success coaching, counseling, guest speakers, internship, and, scholarship opportunities.”
AvenueE is a program within the College of Engineering that is designed to help community college transfer students smoothly transition to UC Davis, and ultimately, a career in engineering or computer science.
“We believe deeply in our studentsʼ intellect and capacity, and sometimes they just need a little bit of help to realize their potential,” said Yesenia Cervantes-Tucker, director of AvenueE. “We believe that cultivating a diverse STEM workforce is possible, and programs like AvenueE are making a difference in this space.”
AvenueE is a program designed to help community college transfer students smoothly transition to UC Davis, and ultimately, a career in engineering or computer science. It aims to increase participation of women and underrepresented minorities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), with the goal of creating a new generation of promising STEM talent and leadership.
As part of Black History Month, the UC Davis College of Engineering is engaging our faculty and staff in considering our roles in implicit bias and systemic racism. We all play a part in addressing these long-standing issues and are making spaces to have open, collective dialogue that moves our college and university forward.
