PUMA-STEM
The Promotion of Underrepresented Minorities in Academic STEM (PUMA-STEM) Alliance is focused on strengthening underrepresented minority student success in STEM at primarily undergraduate and regional institutions.
The alliance consists of seven four-year institutions and one community college:
- Elmhurst University (lead institution)
- Benedictine University
- Concordia University Chicago
- Dominican University
- Lewis University
- North Central College
- Saint Xavier University
- College of DuPage
To achieve alliance goals, PUMA-STEM partners will implement cohesive high-impact practices such as:
- Faculty and peer mentoring
- High-quality research experiences (including opportunities for students transferring to four-year institutions)
- Programs to promote inclusive experiences and a sense of belonging in STEM fields
Peer Mentoring Program SUMMER RESEARCH EXPERIENCES
Student Testimonials
“The PUMA-STEM summer research program was an incredibly fun and valuable learning experience that gave me an increased appreciation for scientific research and the opportunity to present at the 2020 LSMRCE Conference.” —Sydnie Rizaldo, Lewis University
“The PUMA STEM summer research program was a phenomenal experience! The program helped me develop and improve my organizational skills, personal development skills and time management ability. All these qualities I can confidently bring into my future profession.” —Nevin Brittain, Elmhurst University
“PUMA-STEM has given me the opportunity to grow as a person and a STEM student. This experience has made me capable of expanding my skills and improving my performance in all aspects of the STEM field. Conducting scientific research through a program so inclusive like PUMA-STEM has allowed me to gain new tools that will help me during my academic career.” —Natalie Figueroa, Benedictine University