Abstract
Despite increases over the last two decades in the number of
degrees awarded to students from underrepresented groups
in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
disciplines, enhancing diversity in these disciplines remains
a challenge. This article describes a strategic approach to this
challenge—the development of a collaborative partnership
between two universities: the historically Black Elizabeth City
State University and the historically White University of New
Hampshire. The partnership, a type of learning organization
built on three mutually agreed upon principles, strives to
enhance opportunities for underrepresented students to pursue
careers in the STEM disciplines. This article further describes six
promising practices that framed the partnership, which resulted
in the submission of nine proposals to federal agencies and the
funding of four grants that led to the implementation, research,
learning, and evaluation that followed.