About Us

Together, the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) and the University of Arizona (UA), both Hispanic-Serving Institutions, are working towards building sustainability and justice concerns into STEM education in agriculture with a specific focus on recruiting, retaining, and supporting underrepresented (UR) students. The two-year program emphasizes environmental justice as a starting point and provides career-relevant skills and internships.

This comprehensive program includes summer coursework, career development, learning communities, and internships for undergraduate students and support for graduate students from underrepresented backgrounds pursuing Master's or PhD degrees.

Why UCSB and UA?

UCSB stands out with its prestigious environmental sciences program and renowned multidisciplinary approach. Integrating agriculture into UCSB's existing strengths equips graduates to lead efforts in solving environmental, economic, and social challenges in the food system. The institution's substantial population of first-generation students with familial ties to agriculture ensures that these unique insights enrich STEM education.

UA, as the first federally recognized Hispanic Serving Institution in Arizona, is dedicated to meeting the educational needs of its diverse communities. The institution's Seal of Excelencia recognition underscores its commitment to Latinx student success. UA, like UCSB, enrolls many first-generation students with connections to the agriculture and food industries, providing opportunities to leverage these experiences in their educational journey.

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