Increasing Diversity in Partnership with the American Geophysical Union

In 2019, the American Geophysical Union joined the Inclusive Graduate Education Network and initiated the AGU Bridge Program. The AGU Bridge Program creates the opportunity for individuals historically marginalized and underrepresented in geoscience to apply to graduate school departments that have demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusive excellence. In 2020, CU Geography was accepted as a partner department in the AGU Bridge Program. Departments must apply to become a Bridge partner and undergo a rigorous review process to assess their ability to support and mentor a diversity of students. In 2021, the first AGU Bridge student joined CU Geography. Each year the Bridge Program is growing—in 2019, 13 departments were accepted into the program and this year the number of participating departments has grown to 46. Students who want to join a Bridge Program department can apply to all partner departments via a free common application that is shared by all the institutions. Once accepted into the program, students can take advantage of professional development opportunities, including workshops and conferences, help in identifying faculty mentors, and networking with other students in the program to share their experiences. By working with the AGU Bridge Program, we are continuing our work towards creating a more welcoming environment for all interested in the geosciences.