Summer Research Initiative Celebrates 25 Years of Excellence

On Thursday, July 27, more than 100 people from across the country celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Summer Research Initiative (SRI) at a special event in the Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center.

Established in 1999, the SRI has enhanced behavioral and social science research and scholarship by providing an opportunity for more diverse students to engage in intensive, summer undergraduate research experiences. 

Current SRI scholars presented posters about their research projects, which focused on a broad range of topics, from health care access to systemic racism to environmental issues.

The current cohort and faculty mentors had the opportunity to engage with SRI alumni—many of whom are faculty members at prestigious institutions, or who now hold an advanced degree—creating a full-circle moment of current and past SRI success.

Assistant Dean for Diversity Equity and Inclusion Kim Nickerson, the longtime director of the SRI program, remarked on the impressive accomplishments of SRI scholars past and present at the event. 

"I think it is our job as faculty members and administrators to encourage and enable these scholars in every way," Nickerson said. "I often say that, 'Success equals opportunity, minus barriers and distractions.' The leadership in BSOS and in UMD is charged with removing barriers and distractions for talented scholars in every way possible."

Dean Susan Rivera said she was inspired by the current SRI scholars, and was honored by the chance to meet many SRI alumni as well.

“It has been my pleasure to interact with this year’s cohort of SRI scholars, and to see their posters and learn about their outstanding projects. I am deeply impressed by the range of important topics they are addressing, the prestigious universities that they represent, and the passion and drive that they so clearly bring to their research,” Rivera said.

Rivera herself greatly benefitted from a summer research program during her undergraduate career.

“I know firsthand how enriching this experience can be,” Rivera said. “It’s no exaggeration to say that it was a life-changing opportunity for me.”

SRI alumni can now be found as academics in universities, health and mental health service providers in all kinds of settings, attorneys, doctoral-level researchers, analysts, and high-level administrators in governmental agencies, NGOs, private industry, teachers and administrators, and a host of other occupations where their diverse perspectives are being used to address some of the world’s great challenges.

The evening provided an opportunity to thank SRI founding director Dr. Bob Steele, and his wife, Jean Steele, who are longtime supporters of the program. The Steeles established the Dr. Robert E. Steele and Jean E. Steele Summer Research Initiative Endowed Program Support Fund, which helps to ensure the continuity and expansion of the program. They also generously supported two SRI scholars in 2022.

Dr. Steele was presented with a special award at the dinner. He was introduced by Dr. Arthur Evans, CEO of the American Psychological Association. Evans is also a graduate of the college’s Ph.D. program in clinical/community psychology.

In his remarks, Steele especially thanked the faculty mentors who have donated their time and energy to the program and its scholars over the years, and also praised the college and the university for continuing to make the SRI a priority.

“I live in Hawaii now, and there is a word there that means a feeling of deepest gratitude, a word I share with all of you, ‘mahalo,’” Steele said.

At the conclusion of the event, the BSOS Dean’s Medal was presented to Nickerson, an honor which took him by surprise.

"I remember being part of the committee that created the BSOS Dean's Medal, which is the highest honor our college can bestow," Nickerson said. "To be a part of that process and then to receive this medal truly leaves me speechless. I thank you," Nickerson said. 

Published on Fri, Jul 28, 2023 - 12:21PM