TERC, a math and science education organization, announced Dr. Stephen D. Alkins, Jr. as its new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer on Wednesday. In this role, Dr. Alkins will help the Cambridge-based program attract diverse talent and develop training and initiatives to foster an inclusive workplace.
Dr. Alkins will also manage the Scholars Program to help nurture the next generation of STEM education innovators.
“Stephen stood out as a talented, caring and committed professional, a scientist himself with a passion for education,” said TERC president Laurie Brennan in a news release. “Stephen’s ability to think strategically and roll up his sleeves to get the job done convinced me that he is not only the right person for this position but will also be a key leader at TERC.”
Dr. Alkins got his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Brandeis University, where he also earned his master’s degree in the subject and oversaw diversity recruitment initiatives for STEM graduate programs. The new diversity officer co-founded the Achievement In Math Program based at MassBay Community College in Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts.
His commitment to advocating for diversity and inclusion in STEM coupled with his academic record earned him recognition as a Neuroscience Scholars Program National Fellow.
“Creative solutions to complex questions come from the inclusion of diverse people and perspectives,” said Dr. Alkins. “Diversity does not reflect great science. Great science reflects diversity.”
