Diverse scientists collaborating in a futuristic lab, symbolizing inclusion in STEM.

Beyond Diversity: Why Inclusion is the Key to STEM Success

Reese Marlowe in Mind & Education August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Focusing on minority experiences, not just numbers, can unlock the true potential of diversity initiatives in science and technology."

Diversity has long been recognized as a catalyst for innovation and progress in scientific fields. By bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and perspectives, organizations can unlock new insights, challenge conventional thinking, and drive groundbreaking discoveries. However, despite widespread acknowledgment of its importance, achieving meaningful diversity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) remains a persistent challenge.

In recent years, many institutions have launched initiatives aimed at increasing the representation of underrepresented minority (URM) groups—including individuals of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and persons with disabilities—within their ranks. These efforts often focus on recruitment and enrollment, with the goal of boosting the numbers of diverse individuals in academic departments and research programs. Yet, despite these well-intentioned efforts, progress has been slow, and URM groups continue to be underrepresented in STEM fields.

Why are diversity initiatives failing to deliver on their promise? According to experts, a fundamental disconnect exists between the stated goals of these programs and the lived experiences of URM students and professionals. Too often, diversity efforts focus on surface-level representation without addressing the underlying issues of bias, discrimination, and exclusion that can undermine the success and well-being of individuals from marginalized groups. To truly transform STEM, organizations must shift their focus from diversity to inclusion, creating environments where all individuals feel welcomed, valued, and supported.

The Difference Between Diversity and Inclusion

Diverse scientists collaborating in a futuristic lab, symbolizing inclusion in STEM.

Diversity and inclusion are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct concepts with different implications. Diversity refers to the presence of differences within a group, such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and physical ability. Inclusion, on the other hand, speaks to how those members are treated and how they feel. An inclusive environment is one in which all individuals feel respected, valued, and empowered to participate fully.

Focusing solely on diversity without addressing inclusion can have unintended consequences. For example, an organization may successfully recruit a diverse group of individuals but fail to create a culture in which they feel comfortable sharing their ideas, expressing their concerns, or challenging the status quo. In such cases, diversity efforts may backfire, leading to dissatisfaction, disengagement, and ultimately, attrition.

Acknowledge Structural Bias: Recognize that structural bias and social injustice affect scientists as people and that this has consequences for their science.
Go Beyond Recruitment: It's not enough to simply admit a URM student. Ensure they feel welcome, heard, and valued.
Encourage Identity Expression: Create an environment where URM students can embrace their identities without fear of judgment or discrimination.

To create truly inclusive environments, organizations must move beyond surface-level representation and address the underlying issues that can undermine the success and well-being of individuals from marginalized groups. This requires a multi-faceted approach that includes:

Moving Forward: A Call to Action

The journey toward creating a truly diverse and inclusive STEM community is an ongoing process that requires sustained commitment and effort. By embracing the principles outlined above, organizations can create environments where all individuals feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. Only then can we unlock the true power of diversity and build a more just, equitable, and innovative scientific community.

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This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1126/science.aai9054, Alternate LINK

Title: Without Inclusion, Diversity Initiatives May Not Be Enough

Subject: Multidisciplinary

Journal: Science

Publisher: American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

Authors: Chandler Puritty, Lynette R. Strickland, Eanas Alia, Benjamin Blonder, Emily Klein, Michel T. Kohl, Earyn Mcgee, Maclovia Quintana, Robyn E. Ridley, Beth Tellman, Leah R. Gerber

Published: 2017-09-15

Everything You Need To Know

What exactly is meant by the term 'diversity' in the context of STEM?

Diversity refers to the presence of differences within a group. This can include race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and physical ability. It's essentially about having a variety of people represented. However, simply having diversity isn't enough to foster innovation or a positive environment if these diverse individuals do not feel included or valued.

What does 'inclusion' really mean, and why is it so important alongside diversity?

Inclusion goes beyond just having a diverse group of people; it's about how those members are treated and how they feel. An inclusive environment is one in which all individuals feel respected, valued, and empowered to participate fully. It means creating a culture where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and expressing their concerns without fear of judgment or discrimination. Inclusion addresses the underlying issues of bias, discrimination, and exclusion that can undermine the success and well-being of individuals from marginalized groups. Without inclusion, diversity efforts may backfire, leading to dissatisfaction, disengagement, and attrition.

What is meant by 'structural bias,' and why is it important to acknowledge in STEM?

Structural bias refers to systemic and institutionalized practices that disadvantage certain groups of people while benefiting others. Acknowledging structural bias in STEM means recognizing that these biases affect scientists and students from underrepresented minority (URM) groups, and these biases have consequences for their scientific work and careers. Ignoring structural bias perpetuates inequality and hinders progress towards a truly inclusive STEM community. Recognizing structural biases is the first step toward dismantling them and creating a more equitable system.

Why is it not enough to just focus on recruitment of underrepresented groups in STEM?

Focusing on recruitment means actively seeking out and hiring or admitting individuals from underrepresented minority (URM) groups. While recruitment is important for increasing diversity, it's not enough on its own. Institutions must also ensure that URM students and professionals feel welcome, heard, and valued once they are part of the community. This includes providing support, mentorship, and opportunities for advancement. Failing to go beyond recruitment can lead to a revolving door, where URM individuals are recruited but quickly leave due to a lack of inclusion and support.

What does it mean to 'encourage identity expression,' and why is it important for underrepresented students?

Encouraging identity expression means creating an environment where individuals from underrepresented minority (URM) groups can freely express their cultural, ethnic, or other identities without fear of judgment or discrimination. This can involve celebrating diverse traditions, providing affinity groups or safe spaces, and ensuring that the curriculum and institutional practices are inclusive of diverse perspectives. Suppressing identity expression can lead to feelings of alienation and isolation, hindering individuals' ability to thrive and contribute their unique talents.