Chemistry’s multi-pronged approach to inclusive excellence
The Department of Chemistry has created a multi-pronged approach to inclusive excellence to create a successful and supportive environment to recruit and retain students. Implementation of several department-level programs and support of student-led initiatives are key components of our approach. Each of our current programs is summarized below, and links are provided for more detailed information.
The Catalyst program aims to increase retention and reduce graduation times for populations that have historically been underrepresented in the chemical sciences. This program implements evidence-based peer mentoring to support students in their first year of graduate school. Each Catalyst participant is paired with a current student before arriving on campus. Peer mentors complete a 4-hr workshop on effective mentoring the preceding summer and then contact the mentee with whom they are paired before the ‘official’ start of grad school. Mentors and mentees attend two monthly seminars together and have at least four off-campus meetings together. The monthly seminar series consists of skill development salient to the success of grad students and their future employers. Topics have included establishing a productive work/life balance, cultivating a positive scientific mindset, fostering an inclusive environment, and successfully advocating for yourself. A community of leaders is created through this program by encouraging mentees to continue on in the program as mentors.
Launched in 2016, Catalyst was initially funded by the graduate school. Currently, the Catalyst is funded by P&G and PPG. Since its inception, Catalyst has had 240 mentees over the years. In 2026, Catalyst has grown to currently have over 40 mentor/mentee pairs compared to only 13 pairs in 2016! Catalyst provides a small scholarship for all mentors so they can highlight their leadership on CVs. In addition, the program is led by a leadership team of graduate students who help design and implement the program.
Bridge to the doctorate began in Fall 2019. The department was selected as the first Chemistry Bridge site by ACS and received funding for the first 3 years. Our Bridge Program is designed as a 22-month Master’s program. Fellows come to campus a week before the other first years. This gives them time to acclimate to Madison, meet other fellows, and have Bridge orientation. Following the first week, Fellows then attend orientation with all other first years. In the fall, they rotate and select a group (one that is willing to accept a Bridge Fellow). After the first year, the Bridge committee meets with the PI and the Fellow and discusses future plans. This is to help prepare the Fellow for either applying to other programs or transitioning into our PhD program or graduating with a Master’s degree.
The Bridge to the Doctorate Program was initially funded by a 3-year grant from the American Chemical Society. Currently, Bridge is funded by the Department of Chemistry, L&S College, the graduate school, P&G, and PPG.