§ 18A:3B-98 — Program to assist institutions of higher education in recruitment, retention of underrepresented students in STEM programs.

1. The Secretary of Higher Education shall establish a program to assist institutions of higher education in the recruitment and retention of underrepresented students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs. Underrepresented students include women and students from other populations historically underrepresented in the STEM fields. The purpose of the program shall be to develop guidance and strategies for the institutions to: a. identify cultural and institutional barriers experienced by underrepresented students, including an assessment of the academic, social, and family-related factors which may negatively impact the recruitment and retention of those students into the STEM fields; and b. provide the students with the institutional and faculty support necessary to allow underrepresented students in STEM programs to reach their academic goals. In the development of the guidance and strategies, the secretary may examine any programs implemented in other states designed to increase the recruitment and retention of underrepresented students in STEM programs at institutions of higher education. L.2021, c.76.