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Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Celebrating Black Engineers in STEM
At the McKelvey School of Engineering, we are proud to recognize the achievements and contributions of Black engineers who have shaped the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Their innovation, leadership and perseverance continue to inspire our community and the next generation of STEM pioneers. Join us as we highlight accomplishments, share stories and empower future generations to continue to push boundaries and drive progress.
We encourage the entire McKelvey community to take time this month — and beyond — to participate in events, read about Black McKelvey engineers, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. Our work does not start and end during this month, but we can use this month to come together as a school. We invite you to visit this webpage throughout the month to identify ways that you can engage as McKelvey commemorates Black History Month.
Celebrating Black engineers
As WashU's National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) gear up for the NSBE 2025 National Conference in Chicago, take a look back at the unforgettable experience our students had in 2023. From dynamic speakers, hands-on workshops to career-shaping networking opportunities, the annual event attracts more than 10,000 STEM students and professionals worldwide to connect, innovate and inspire.
Upcoming WashU Events
Check out the full schedule of Black History Month events happening throughout the university at Happenings
Spotlight on Black innovators in STEM
Black innovators in STEM have profoundly shaped history, overcoming systemic barriers to contribute groundbreaking advancements that have transformed society. From Elijah McCoy’s mechanical innovations that revolutionized industrial efficiency to Katherine Johnson’s calculations that propelled space exploration, their achievements demonstrate resilience and ingenuity. The contributions of Black innovators have fueled technological progress, improved quality of life and paved the way for greater inclusivity in STEM fields.
Black History Month is a time to honor the past, celebrate the present and inspire the future.
So we invite you to share your story. What does Black History Month mean to you? Who or what has inspired your journey to engineering? Whether it’s a personal experience, a tribute or recognition of someone in your life or community, your story can inspire others to celebrate the power of innovation and inclusion.
Resources for education and advocacy
"Black Pioneers of Science and Invention" by Louis Haber
A tribute to Black scientists and inventors who have shaped modern science and engineering.
"Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly
The inspiring story of the Black women mathematicians who played a pivotal role at NASA.
"The Souls of Black Folk" by W.E.B. Du Bois
A foundational work exploring race, culture and innovation.
"Engineering Change"
Focuses on creating a more inclusive and equitable culture within STEM.
"STEMming in Stilettos"
Stories of women of color thriving in STEM fields.
"NSBE Bridge" (National Society of Black Engineers Podcast)
Discussing challenges and triumphs faced by Black engineers.
"The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution"
Examines the Black Panther movement’s impact, including education and STEM outreach.
"Afrofuturism: The Rise of Black Science Fiction and Imagination"
Explores how Black innovators envision future technologies.
"Black in Space: Breaking the Color Barrier"
Highlights the journey of Black astronauts in shaping space exploration.
We are McKelvey
McKelvey Engineering offers a wide range of opportunities for Black students, but we realize there is an opportunity for growth. We are developing new programs, policies and resources, but most importantly, we are listening. By working together, we can enact change. Discover ways to get involved today!
Join student organizations like the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) or other affinity groups focused on supporting Black students in engineering. Attend events and programs such as seminars, workshops or cultural celebrations that highlight Black innovators in STEM. Connect with EDI on resources, initiatives and programs that support underrepresented groups in engineering. Support volunteer and outreach programs and events that foster STEM. Work with faculty or peers to collaborate on initiatives or projects that promote diversity in engineering.
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Alumni William Hopkins (left) and Arnold Donald co-founded the Society of Black Engineers (SOBE) as WashU Engineering students in the 1970s. The group later became a chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), which now has more than 700 chapters and 21,000 members worldwide.
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The Washington University Summer Engineering Fellowship (WUSEF) program encourages exceptional students from backgrounds underrepresented in the STEM fields to participate in month-long engineering research at WashU each summer.
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Among McKelvey Engineering's goals are to hire more faculty and launch new graduate and undergraduate student recruitment efforts.
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Among McKelvey Engineering’s action items for change is to increase graduation rates for underrepresented, first-generation and low-income undergraduate students and to improve placement after graduation rates for undergraduate and graduate students.
Stay Connected
Whether through joining student organizations, attending events, participating in mentoring programs or collaborating on initiatives, there are endless opportunities to engage, learn and contribute. Together, we can pave the way for innovation and excellence.