In a back room of UC Berkeley’s Stephens Hall, a small group gathers around a circular conference table that dwarfs the modest room it occupies. They are plotting to change the world. Collectively known as the Coalition for Excellence and Diversity in Mathematics, Science and Engineering, I know them simply as “The Coalition” (cue the superhero theme music). And I’m lucky enough to be considered one of them, as a representative of the Physics Department’s Compass Project (or, Compass Guy! if you prefer… not that I have an outfit or anything…).

Founded in 1992, the Coalition brings together programs on campus designed to promote exactly what the group’s title claims: excellence and diversity. Coalition co-founder and Emeritus Professor Caroline Kane recalls, “The Coalites, as I like to call them, came together in December that year after the realization that all our students overlapped in programs and in needs and experiences.” Each program has its own distinct goals and methods, but all share the common idea that quality mentoring and community-building are two keys to helping first generation students and those from under-represented groups overcome academic and social disadvantages (e.g., fewer or poorer preparatory classes and unfamiliar peer groups) and succeed in science, math and engineering.

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