CLS and Thrive Scholars Launch Collaboration Agreement to Support Students of Color Excel in STEM Careers

CLS and Thrive Scholars have launched a collaboration agreement to widen the pool of high-achieving, diverse talent in the life sciences industry in California. Through Thrive Scholars programming, we strive to support high-achieving students of color from economically under-resourced communities excel in STEM careers and gain the market-relevant skills needed to excel in the life sciences industry. Together, CLS and Thrive Scholars will focus on community impact and program engagement to help Thrive enroll 150+ new California Scholars in its program in 2024 with the goal of serving 1000+ California Scholars by 2029.

“This partnership is more than just a collaboration; it’s a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the life sciences industry to enrich the talent pipeline. Through immersive experiences and invaluable mentorship, we’re paving the way for students to explore the myriad of career possibilities within this dynamic field”, said Mike Guerra, President and CEO of California Life Sciences.

Through our commitment to creating a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable industry, CLS has built a network of partners around two key areas of focus: Health Equity and Talent.  In addition to Thrive Scholars, CLS supports the following organizations committed to inspiring the next generation of science innovators:

NexGeneGirls: A unique program incorporating rigorous hands-on learning, leadership development and career mentoring for high school females of color from historically excluded communities in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Kits Cubed:  For a third year, CLS will be a host sponsor of Kits Cubed’s annual STEM Fair for Bay Area students, a fun afternoon of science demos and fun activities, with the goal of introducing youth to the wonders of science.

SD2:  With the support of STEM companies throughout San Diego, SD2 gives untapped, diverse high school and college students the opportunity to pursue a career in STEM—through mentorships, internships, scholarships, and professional development.

To learn more about CLS’s work in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, visit https://www.califesciences.org/we-commit-to-change/.

For more information about Thrive Scholars, visit https://www.thrivescholars.org/.