Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies (Bioethics) Center for Ethics, Emory University Atlanta, Georgia
Abstract: We present insights and opportunities from a multi-year, cross-institutional, funded, sponsorship and mentorship program in bioethics. This program is designed to promote next-generation representativeness in bioethics by reducing unjust barriers to entry. It does so by providing financial support, one-to-one and group mentorship, and networking opportunities to students at a formative cusp of their career development, namely while they are undergraduates. Competitively-selected undergraduates (from any major) who have submitted an application that demonstrates interest and aptitude for bioethics or ethical issues in related fields (e.g. biomedical sciences, health humanities, public health) are given opportunities to: 1) explore issues at an ASBH conference; 2) receive mentoring appropriate to their academic and professional goals; 3) participate in networking with peers and professionals; and 4) learn about and participate in other educational opportunities. Our foundational programmatic goal is to identify promising students from all backgrounds, especially those from groups who have historically been underrepresented and undervalued in bioethics (e.g., BIPOC, disabled students, and first-generation students), and who might not otherwise have the chance to attend a professional bioethics conference during this formative period. We highlight the program’s successful outcomes, including alumni publications, conference presentations, and positions at respected universities, government agencies, as well as professional organizations. We also share lessons related to program fundraising, cross-institutional collaboration, and students’ professional development that we have learned through the design and implementation of this program. We conclude by identifying opportunities for ASBH attendees to contribute as well as potential opportunities for similar programs globally.
Keywords: undergraduate education, representativeness, diversity, and inclusion, mentorship
Learning Objectives:
After participating in this conference, attendees should be able to:
Describe the ethical justification, historical evolution, and successful outcomes for students and faculty of a multi-year, cross-institutionally funded, undergraduate sponsorship and mentorship program in bioethics
Identify tangible opportunities for ASBH members to contribute (either as individuals or as programs or institutions) to the sponsorship and mentorship program
Consider how the program’s strategic approach to fundraising, collaboration, and students’ professional development is applicable to different disciplines and international contexts
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