The CUR MCS Division Inclusivity Award is an annual recognition of a member who has shown excellence and sustainable work to broaden access to mathematical, computational, or statistical sciences with a focus on the implementation of real-world research projects for undergraduate students. A desirable contribution would be one that has to influence the community in a significant and positive way on a national scale or has the potential to do so especially engaging a wider audience, similar to the NSF’s famous goal of “broader impacts.”
Nomination Process
Applications should be completed via the online form above. Applications will require an upload of one PDF, 16MB max file size package containing the following items:
- Applicant Letter: (one to two pages). Within this letter, the applicant should summarize who they are, what they do professionally, and how they either have personal experience with inclusion or have done things in their professional work to improve inclusivity within their organization. An ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate successful implementation of ideas that can be expanded to the broader community.
- Curriculum vitae: (two-page limit) Summarizing general academic and/or other career accomplishments and focusing on listing details relevant to applying for the award. Examples could include: initiatives taken on that have improved inclusivity within the applicant’s organization or meaningful projects which have individually impacted students.
See Evaluation Criteria for more information.
Deadline
Application materials were due by March 29, 2024.
Review Process
Division Councilors will review the completed applications and will determine the award winner. The awardee will be notified by the end of May.
Evaluation Criteria
- Evidence of experience regarding the improvement of incorporating inclusion into undergraduate research.
- The number of impactful projects and/or initiatives successfully completed.
- Evidence of impact and success.
- A clear reflection of how the initiatives have impacted post-graduate success in graduate school or in students’ careers.
- A clear explanation of how well your diverse knowledge and skill has enabled you to employ a few high-impact academic practices that can be considered as unique and positive stimuli for long-lasting and/or life-changing influence on undergraduate students’ passion for learning, researching, and giving back to the community.
- Specific examples as described in the letter of application and the letters of support by colleagues and students.
For questions regarding this award, please reach out to CUR@CUR.org.
Past Awardees
Dr. Padmanabhan Seshaiyer is a Professor of Mathematical Sciences at George Mason University (GMU). He has served in multiple leadership positions, including the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Director of the STEM Accelerator Program, and Director of the Center for Outreach in Mathematics Professional Learning and Educational Technology at GMU and also as a former Program Director at the NSF. During the last decade, he has initiated and directed a variety of educational programs, including faculty development, graduate and undergraduate research, K-12 outreach, teacher professional development, and enrichment programs to foster the interest of students and teachers in STEM at all levels. Through his work, he continues to promote equitable and inclusive opportunities in math