SACNAS: Diversity in Physics and STEM

Physics is a difficult field of study. Furthermore the challenges underrepresented minorities (URM) face during their academic careers significantly contribute to the deficit of URM in STEM positions. URMs also tend to be first generation students which means they lack collegial guidance from their families. From financial issues to lack of educational and professional development, URMs face obstacles that can be remedied by organizations dedicated to tackling these challenges.~ The Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) is an organization founded to address these obstacles. We will discuss the efforts made by the SACNAS chapter at the University of Houston to support URMs in STEM fields through mentorship, community engagement, and online gatherings before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. These events have been in the form of resume/CV workshops, NSF GRFP review sessions, and online gaming events. Moreover, we will discuss the merits of facilitating an environment of diversity and inclusivity of not just race/ethnicity but of scientific backgrounds as well. Such environments allow for the development of science communication skills when physicists interact with individuals outside of their respective fields.