Recognizing that diversity of scholars is integral to educational excellence, the University of New Mexico’s Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement Program seeks to produce scholars and researchers who will more accurately reflect the growing diversity in intellectual perspectives, life experiences, and cultures in academe.
Named after Dr. Ronald E, McNair, one of the first African-American astronauts, the program is committed to increasing the number of students in doctoral degree programs who come from low-income and first generation backgrounds, or who are members of traditionally underrepresented groups in academia, specifically African American, Hispanic/Latino, and American Indian/Alaska Natives.
The University of New Mexico McNair Scholars Program began providing services to 26 students in 1999. Today, there are over 188 programs across the country serving approximately 4,500 students.
Today the McNair Scholars Program at UNM provides a unique opportunity for 26 undergraduate students from groups traditionally underrepresented in graduate education and interested in pursuing a career in academics and research. Enriching experiences through program participation will prepare them for fulfilling graduate and professional careers. To participate, students must be considering study beyond the bachelor’s level. McNair Scholars are chosen each year to participate in an intense research and graduate preparation program.
A primary focus of this program is to prepare students for graduate studies. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with their advisors and faculty mentors who will help them achieve their academic goals as well as acquire skills to conduct high quality scholarly research. In this program students will acquire knowledge about graduate education, a greater understanding about the accessibility of graduate education, as well as increase their chances of acceptance into a graduate program. During this process, McNair Scholars will become familiar with the research environment of a major university, and establish a supportive network of academic professionals and peers across the nation.
The McNair Scholars Program benefits from alliances with Departments and the Graduate School at the University of New Mexico federal TRIO* grant from the U.S. Department of Education.
