2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

The persistent lack of diversity in engineering remains a pressing challenge, with limited signs of improvement. Efforts to promote diversity within engineering schools have yielded modest gains. In response to the changing landscape of engineering education, including recent updates in ABET criteria emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), the UIC Chemical Engineering (CHE) department has embarked on a mission to be a change leader. This paper provides an overview of the department's ongoing DEI activities and initiatives, with a focus on creating a more inclusive educational environment.

The UIC DEI committee, in collaboration with a student DEI committee, has implemented a structured model to address DEI issues. To assess the current state of the department, climate surveys were conducted among students and faculty/staff. Action items were formulated to enhance racial equity within the department. Senior exit surveys and group interviews of graduating seniors were employed to capture their experiences and receive valuable feedback.

Furthermore, the establishment of the ChemE Culture Club has provided a platform for celebrating the diverse cultures within the department. The senior design course now includes modules dedicated to global competency development and the incorporation of DEI statements in senior design projects. Additionally, the sophomore thermo course features sustainability projects, helping students understand the societal impacts of their engineering designs.

This paper not only summarizes the current DEI efforts at UIC CHE but also highlights the challenges and gains experienced during this journey. It aims to inspire the broader engineering community to undertake more concerted efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in engineering education. As the UIC Chemical Engineering Department strives to be a model for change, it sets an example for others to follow, addressing the critical imperative of fostering DEI in engineering curricula and beyond.