Indigenous and Black Graduate Scholarship in Biology

Mounting evidence has made two things clear: STEM is not very diverse and diverse, inclusive environments create room for more innovation. 

Currently the SFU Biological Sciences (BISC) Graduate Program has just two Indigenous students, and zero Black students. We have a long way to go. 

But the Biological Sciences Graduate Student Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee is taking concrete action to address these inequities. With your help we can ensure that these numbers change.   

In 2019, our committee was formed by graduate students in the BISC Department at SFU. Our team is committed to uplifting our early career peers from equity deserving communities. 

To jump-start this progress within our department, faculty, and beyond, our next step was clear—the creation of the Indigenous and Black Graduate Scholarship in Biology. 

This vital scholarship will: 

• Attract and retain Indigenous and Black students
• Provide a supportive infrastructure for marginalized students
• Reduce socioeconomic barriers in graduate program attendance 
• Send clear messaging to Indigenous and Black students that you are welcome here

There is a lot of work to be done as we move towards racial inclusion and equity, but every step and effort makes a difference. 

By donating today, you can ensure real change in the lives of deserving students – students who may not otherwise be able to access a university education. 

Not only will this scholarship remove barriers for prospective students, our hope is that it will also create a blueprint for other departments, faculties and universities to model as we all seek out ways to make an impact in our community.