We envision a world in which the diversity of the American society is reflected in the recipients of all prestigious STEM honors, including future Laureate classes of the National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation. Before we see a new class of Laureates that represents both the highest levels of science and technology and reflects our diverse society, we must build a STEM ecosystem that supports all who wish to endeavor there. To make that dream a reality, we must turn our gaze to one of the most vulnerable parts of the STEM pipeline: an undergraduate’s journey from enrollment to graduation with a STEM degree. The high attrition rate of first-year STEM students, especially those from underrepresented groups, perpetuates a representation problem in collegiate and post-collegiate communities. We believe that intervention at this point in a student’s journey is critical. Any young person who dreams of being a scientist or inventor should receive the education, mentoring, and inspiration to help that dream bear fruit.
