AccessComputing is excited to announce AccessUR2PhD, an initiative designed to support and mentor women and gender-marginalized students with disabilities (WGMD) through engaging computer science research and PhD programs. Aiming to build a more inclusive future in computing, AccessUR2PhD focuses on two objectives:
To provide direct support for WGMD students interested in computing research through mentoring, leadership, and training activities.
To develop and disseminate resources to support (1) WGMD students in computing research and (2) faculty and graduate students who are mentoring WGMD students.
Supported by the National Science Foundation, AccessUR2PhD brings AccessComputing’s almost twenty years of experience mentoring and supporting students with disabilities in computer science to a new height, allowing the new program to bring dedicated resources and focus to an often under-supported group. AccessURPhD seeks to dismantle barriers to higher education by offering mentorship from faculty and peers, professional development workshops, and direct financial support for research and academic endeavors, along with a variety of other resources.
The Computing Research Association shared the announcement in their newsletter. Kelly Shaw, UR2PhD Program Leader and Professor at William College, stated in the announcement, “Increasing the number of women and gender-marginalized individuals earning PhDs in computing requires support and mentorship at every stage of a student’s career, up through the completion of the PhD. These students face unique challenges and no one organization can provide all the resources and guidance they need to be successful. We’re proud to be building partnerships that empower women and gender-marginalized students to explore their curiosity in computing research, so that they’re ultimately able to obtain their PhD.”
Learn more about AccessUR2PhD on our website or email us at accesscomp@uw.edu.