CHALLENGES

LACK OF MEMBERSHIP DEMOGRAPHIC DATA                     

Without robust demographic data, scientific societies cannot assess the long-term effects of diversity-focused programming to diversify their membership, and in turn, build a more inclusive STEM workforce. 

LACK OF SCIENTISTS IN TRANSITIONAL CAREER STAGES

Societies have the potential to serve the powerful function of supporting scientists at varied and transitional career stages, yet these scholars are often underrepresented in society membership and programming. 

LACK OF DIVERSITY IN LEADERSHIP RANKS         

                                                                                                      Societies are uniquely positioned to promote the scholarship and research of members belonging to historically excluded groups by centrally placing them in conference schedules and leadership, yet the ranks of thought leaders in our societies are generally composed of individuals from well-represented groups.