The University of Nebraska–Lincoln recently joined the National GEM Consortium, a network of colleges, universities and industry partners committed to increasing underrepresented groups at the master’s and doctoral levels in engineering and science.
Since 1976, the consortium has been successful at matching more than 3,000 highly-qualified graduate students with 130+ universities and STEM graduate programs across the country. It recently received the 2022 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring.
The Office of Graduate Studies will house the university’s GEM membership, working in partnership with the Office of Research and Economic Development, Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and NUtech Ventures, as well as faculty and administrators from academic units.
“Membership in The National GEM Consortium is an excellent opportunity for us to grow our graduate programs and support efforts in meeting N2025 goals for the recruitment of a diverse student body and strengthening engagement with industry partners,” said Deb Hope, associate vice chancellor and dean of graduate education.
The university’s membership in the GEM consortium provides:
- Graduate faculty access to a large graduate student recruiting network and database;
- Graduate student funding for qualified students through the consortium and/or industry partnerships; and
- Summer industry internships for graduate students in master’s and doctoral programs.
The GEM Consortium boasts 77 industry members ranging from national laboratories, S&P500 companies, high tech companies, and biotech firms. Companies who join the consortium have an opportunity to build talent pipelines by establishing relationships with students while they are still in school.
Joy Eakin, entrepreneurship program manager for NUtech Ventures, will serve as the university’s primary contact with industry partners.
Alisha Hanshaw, assistant dean of graduate enrollment with Graduate Studies, will serve as the university’s contact for departments interested in recruiting GEM fellows. She will also work with program alumni to support participating graduate students and assist departments recruiting new faculty.
Consortium alumni are encouraged to contact Hanshaw at alisha.hanshaw@unl.edu or 402-472-2869.
Students can learn more about becoming a GEM fellow here.
