Transforming STEM Transfer Pathways at an HSI: Applying the Shared Equity Leadership (SEL) Toolkit for Systemic Change

Program Abstract: LaGuardia Community College, an HSI, is addressing the critical issue of establishing effective STEM transfer pathways to support underrepresented students. Funded by $4.6 million USDOE grant, LaGuardia established the Queens STEM Academy. The work resulted in developing articulation agreements with Queens College via the STEM Ladder, STEM Learning, and STEM Link initiatives to holistically support students' journey from the start of their two-year college to their transferring to a four-year partner. Utilizing the Change Leadership Toolkit and the SEL Toolkit, this session will share insights on engaging stakeholders, assessing institutional capacity, and identifying strategic levers to create sustainable and transformative reforms. Early results show increased faculty and staff engagement, better credit transfer processes, and higher credit accumulation for students enrolled in first-semester learning communities. This session aims to provide valuable lessons for other institutions committed to advancing equity and success for underrepresented transfer students in STEM.