Roadrunner Diversity Scholars Program

OUR MISSION

The Roadrunner Diversity Scholars Project supports the recruitment, retention, academic success and career preparation of outstanding undergraduate students from groups historically underrepresented in the field of education and first-generation undergraduate students. This program demonstrates one distinctive approach for the School of Education’s commitment to promoting justice through diversity, equity and inclusion and supporting students in meeting academic and professional goals.

OUR VISION: CAREER READINESS, CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AND COMMUNITY

The vision of the Roadrunner Diversity Scholars Program is to support the recruitment and retention of student scholars enrolled in School of Education Teacher Preparation Programs.  Research and experience both demonstrate that underrepresented racial/ethnic minority students perform better academically and are more likely to experience academic success when they are part of a cohort of others who share similar social identities. This premise/understanding is central to the mission of the Roadrunners Diversity Scholars Program. The program connects students to a small community within the School of Education to provide an active and engaged social and professional network. Students participate in activities that offer space to share experiences, practice civic engagement through extracurricular activities, and participate in opportunities that enhance their readiness for careers in education and/or graduate studies. This includes career preparation activities beyond what is offered in classroom curriculum, opportunities to connect and engage with professionals in the community, leadership experience, and active membership in a growing social and professional network of RDSP alumni.

RDSP scholars are expected to engage in the following social, service learning, professional development and cultural activities.

Applying for Scholarships

Scholars are expected to apply for scholarships during the yearly scholarship application cycle.

Social Activities

RDSP students are expected to attend three RDSP wide activities:  which will be determined annually but typically occur in early September, in February, and an event in May. In addition, each RDSP scholar is expected to meet on a regular basis under the direction of the RDSP Directors/Advisors.

Cultural Events

All RDSP Scholars are required to attend at least one multicultural co-curricular event at MSU per semester.  We accept any events hosted at MSU that have a focus on one or more elements of multicultural identities, diversity, equity, & inclusion.  We strongly recommend attending an event organized and hosted by the MSU Office of Diversity & Inclusion. More direction will be given as events arise.

Professional Development

RDSP Directors will organize and connect you to professional development workshops in which scholars are expected to participate at least one per semester. Events hosted specifically for the School of Education students are key here (Trauma-Informed Practices (TIP) training, interview workshop by the Office of Clinical Experiences & Partnerships (OCEP), etc).