Emergence of the Environmental Justice League: Designing an Undergraduate Research Program to Build Belonging for Minoritized STEM Students

Dr. Monica Miles, Dr. Rachel Bonnette, along with doctoral students Athenia Cyrus and Ann Ditto, are pioneering the groundwork for an undergraduate research program aimed at diversifying the U.S. STEM workforce. Despite the importance of equity and social justice, current industry representation remains skewed towards privileged groups, with minoritized students facing higher attrition rates from bachelor's programs. This shortage of diverse expertise hampers STEM innovation crucial for uplifting marginalized communities. Minoritized students encounter numerous obstacles, including discrimination and difficulty navigating STEM programs. A sense of belonging is vital for overcoming these barriers, typically measured by internal and external supports and motivation. We launched our research lab, the Environmental Justice Action Research Lab (E-Jar), to address these pressing issues. E-Jar serves as the foundational platform for our initiatives, providing a space for collaborative research, mentorship, and community engagement. Through E-Jar, we have established partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders, laying the groundwork for our Environmental Justice undergraduate research program. Drawing on effective models, the approach emphasizes evidence-based practices such as self-advocacy, peer and faculty support, and motivation to enhance student engagement.The program integrates cohort dynamics, industry engagement, peer mentoring, advising, undergraduate research, and career preparation to create a more inclusive STEM environment. The goal is to connect underrepresented students with research experiences working directly with Mother Earth Literacies and Black-led community organizations in Buffalo's East Side, fostering a sense of belonging and advancing environmental justice goals.

Dr. Monica L. Miles is an Assistant Professor of Engineering Education at the University at Buffalo, specializing in critical race theory and environmental justice informed research approaches. As a dedicated advocate for equitable education, Dr. Miles actively engages in seeking, establishing, and fostering connections aimed at transforming learning environments for Black and other marginalized individuals. In addition to her academic role, she is the Co-Founder and President of Mother Earth Literacies, LLC—an organization deeply committed to championing environmental justice within educational frameworks and community engagement initiatives on the East Side of Buffalo.