West Texas A&M University researchers win grant for plan to boost Hispanic students in STEM

CANYON, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — A team of researchers from West Texas A&M University recently won a $500,000 federal grant for a project designed to incorporate family support and artificial intelligence in a plan to increase STEM success in Hispanic college students.

“Our project addresses a pressing issue: Hispanic students, including many women and first-generation college students, often find it especially challenging to succeed in STEM fields—science, technology, engineering, and math,” said Dr. Azi Tabei, assistant professor of electrical engineering and computer science in WT’s College of Engineering. “Despite numerous programs aimed at supporting these students, they continue to face significant obstacles that can hinder their progress and prevent them from completing their degrees.”

Data shows that the successful graduation rate of these groups is lower than their peers, Tabei the principal investigator for the project said.

According to officials with WT, the project entitled “HSI Implementation and Evaluation Project: STEM Student Empowerment through Mentorship, Family-Centric Innovation Activities, and Artificial Intelligence Research,” won the grant through the National Science Foundation and will include initiatives designed to involve students and their families with a strong emphasis on AI.

“Engaging underrepresented groups in STEM is crucial not only for promoting economic mobility and social integration but also for driving innovation,” she said. “The underrepresentation of these groups in STEM fields limits the scope of ideas and solutions in technology and science, which is vital for fostering innovation.”

Officials noted that alongside Tabei, other team members for the project include:

• Dr. Behnam Askarian, assistant professor of electrical engineering;
• Dr. Audrey Meador, associate professor of mathematics; and
• Dr. Vinitha Subburaj, associate dean and associate professor of computer science.

“Integrating AI into our curriculum and projects does more than teach students about current technologies; it also prepares them for future challenges and opportunities,” Tabei said. “This approach ensures that our students are not just keeping pace; they’re equipped to lead and innovate. We’re committed to transforming them from learners into leaders who are ready to tackle real-world problems using the best technologies available.”

Tabei said the project could have wide-reaching implications.

“By integrating practical AI research and emphasizing STEM concepts that resonate with the local Hispanic community, our initiatives prepare students for advanced careers in technology and innovation,” Tabei said. “This comprehensive approach aims to shape the future of STEM disciplines, ensuring our students are well-equipped to thrive in their academic and professional journeys.”

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