Building a STEM Pathway: Xavier University of Louisiana’s Summer Science Academy

In order to attract and retain underrepresented student groups (USGs) who aspire to major in STEM fields, educators recognize that science and math instruction must improve and also develop students’ non-cognitive and social-emotional skills. Foremost in that effort is Xavier University of Louisiana, a historically black and Catholic university located in the heart of New Orleans. Throughout the past thirty years, Xavier compiled an extraordinary record as a top producer of African Americans who receive bachelor’s degrees in biology, chemistry, and physics. Although Xavier enrolls only approximately 3,000 students, at least 70 percent are African American of whom about 65 percent major in science and mathematics, stated Dr. Loren Blanchard, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Xavier. With support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF), Xavier designed innovative models and approaches in STEM teaching and learning. NIH and NSF funding priorities require programs to use evidence-based instructional practices, support a high school outreach component, and document the impact of these programs on improving the preparation and success of candidates for STEM fields.