The College of New Jersey’s Department of Physics has received a Bronze Award from the Physics and Astronomy SEA Change Committee, recognizing its initiatives to improve inclusivity and diversity within the department.
The SEA Change program is run by the American Association for the Advancement of Sciences. Its purpose is to encourage changes in institutions that help everyone succeed in STEMM fields, which include science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine.
“TCNJ is thrilled to receive this award,” said AJ Richards, associate professor of physics. “It is an exciting and worthwhile challenge to make TCNJ physics as welcoming as possible and reduce barriers to accessing an outstanding education in the field. We hope to serve as an example for other primarily undergraduate institutions for examining and enhancing access and inclusion in their own departments.”
Alexis Knaub, Director of P/A SEA Change, stated: “The P/A SEA Change Committee is pleased to see the TCNJ physics and astronomy department earn a Bronze Award. Their efforts to support adjunct faculty will not only support the faculty themselves but also the students in these learning space. We look forward to continuing our work with this department and seeing how they continue the work of not only removing unnecessary barriers but also creating positive, supportive environments so that the ecosystem allows all to thrive.”
To achieve recognition through P/A SEA Change, departments must conduct a thorough self-assessment that reviews their demographics, policies, procedures, culture, and climate. They then create a five-year action plan with measurable goals aimed at addressing structural challenges identified during this review.
A panel evaluates each department’s self-assessment and action plan before granting awards. The Bronze Award is valid for five years. During this period, P/A SEA Change offers ongoing guidance as departments implement their plans.
