Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, Inc., abbreviated oSTEM, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit professional society dedicated to LGBTQ+ individuals within the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) community. History. In October 2005, IBM sponsored a focus group where students from across the United States convened at the Human Rights Campaign headquarters in Washington, D.C. These students discussed topics relevant to LGBTQ+ communities at their own colleges and universities, and they debated how to structure an organization that serves students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Founded in 2009 and achieving 501(c)(3 ) status in 2010, oSTEM currently consists of more than 100 chapters across the United States and the United Kingdom. Mission. As an organization dedicated to the community, oSTEM strives to stay engaged to identify, address, and advocate for the needs of LGBTQ+ students and professionals within the STEM fields. oSTEM fulfills these needs in many ways, including networking opportunities, mentorship connections, strategic collaborations and professional/leadership development, as well as an annual global conference. Activities. Conferences. oSTEM hosts annual conferences that discuss LGBTQ+ topics in STEM as well as intelligence fields. Topics discussed include inclusion, outreach, and diversity within the  workplace. Workshops, presentations, and networking events for LGBTQ+ individuals aim to facilitate integration and advancement in their respective fields. The fourth annual conference was hosted jointly with the National Organization of Gay and Lesbian Scientists and Technical Professionals' Out to Innovate in Atlanta in 2014. LGBTSTEM Day. On July 5th, 2018, oSTEM along with Pride in STEM, House of STEM, and InterEngineering created international awareness for LGBTQ+ people in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Awards. oSTEM presents a variety of awards annually to individuals and organizations that demonstrate a strong dedication to advancing and empowering LGBTQ+ in STEM fields. oSTEM  Global STEM Service Award. The oSTEM Global STEM Service Award is given to present and past oSTEM members who show strong dedication to inclusion, diversity, and equality for LGBTQ+ and other marginalized individuals in STEM fields. Awardees are: oSTEM Strategic Alliance Award. The oSTEM Strategic Alliance Award is presented to a current sponsoring organization, community partner, or grant provider of oSTEM who demonstrates strong dedication, engagement, and support to oSTEM and its values. Awardees are: oSTEM Partner Excellence Award. The oSTEM Partner Excellence Award is presented to individuals associated with oSTEM accomplished in their academic or professional lives who regularly  advocate for the full inclusion of people of all marginalized identities. Awardees are: Overall Student Chapter of the Year. The Overall Student Chapter of the Year is given to oSTEM chapters that educate, empower, and engage a diverse community. These chapters contribute greatly to identifying, addressing, and advocating for LGBTQ students in the STEM community Awardees are: Rookie Student Chapter of the Year. The Rookie Student Chapter of the Year celebrates achievements by oSTEM chapters that have been founded within two years of application submission. Awardees are: Chapters. oSTEM has over 90 chapters as of September 2018. Chapters are organized  into six geographic regions (A-F) and two types (student and professional). Student Chapters. The six regions are: Professional Chapters. The first professional chapter is currently being tested in the Boston metropolitan area. Further cities will be announced at a later date. Sponsors. oSTEM is sponsored by industries involved in STEM fields as well as government entities and academic STEM programs.