In this talk, Damas will explore the early findings of her dissertation study to emphasize further the impact of minority engineering programs on student experiences. She will leverage her findings...
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Abstract:
In this talk, Damas will explore the early findings of her dissertation study to emphasize further the impact of minority engineering programs on student experiences. She will leverage her findings and existing literature to lay the groundwork for understanding how students from marginalized backgrounds experience electrical and computer engineering (ECE) at predominantly and historically White institutions. She will highlight the role of student support programs in enhancing student success and provide insights and strategies to integrate inclusive practices into ECE departments and classrooms. Damas aims to engage key stakeholders in ECE to create learning environments that facilitate thriving for students and enhance their sense of belonging in the major. This critical approach will, in turn, positively impact the recruitment and retention of students from marginalized identities and help support thriving in the major. Attendees will gain a better understanding of student experiences and learn helpful strategies to provide intentional student support.
Bio: Stephanie Damas is a dedicated 4th year Ph.D. candidate at Clemson University, specializing in Engineering and Science Education. She is recognized as a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow and Southern Regional Education Board Dissertation Fellow, showcasing her exceptional commitment to research and academia. Alongside her Ph.D. studies, Damas attained a Master of Science in Computer Science at Clemson University, focusing on Human-Centered Computing. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Florida State University, demonstrating her strong foundation in the field. As the Program Manager for the Clemson University Call Me Doctor ESTEEMED Scholars Program, Damas leads initiatives supported by a National Institute of Health R25 research training grant. This program offers invaluable research experiences to undergraduates pursuing Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. degrees, specifically focusing on biomedical research. Additionally, she serves as the coordinator for the Clemson University Women in Science & Engineering Mentorship Program, overseeing mentorship activities for over 200 first-year students. Damas’ dissertation research is groundbreaking, delving into the critical area of institutional support for minority engineering programs. Her work aims to reshape how institutions design and implement programs for students with marginalized identities. With a passion for inclusivity and diversity in education, Damas fosters supportive environments for underrepresented students.
Organizers: Professors Mona Zebarjadi and Mool Gupta, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering