Cutting-edge Equity

Binghamton has many homes to novel thinking, perhaps none more prolific than the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science. At its heart is a diverse community, which has more than doubled in size since 2000 — expressly built for innovation.

Recognizing that diversity, equity and inclusion is key to problem-solving, Watson is breaking new ground on these fronts, providing replicable, scalable examples for Binghamton and the whole SUNY system. In 2021, The American Society for Engineering Education recognized these efforts by honoring Watson for its commitment to diversity and inclusion with a Bronze Level award, the highest level granted that year — stamping the College a national leader in inclusive excellence.

Watson is explicit about its DEI goals. It seeks to raise standards among engineering and computer science programs, striving, among other goals, to increase the number of historically underrepresented minorities and women among the College’s student body, faculty and staff.

The College is well on its way to meeting that goal thanks to two programs established in the last two years: Diversifying Coding, which prepares women and members of underrepresented minority groups for careers in coding, and the Watson College Scholars Program, which provides tuition support and academic and pre-professional opportunities for Pell Grant-eligible students who are strong candidates for graduate student and professional careers in engineering or computer science.

Overseeing these opportunities is Watson’s new Assistant Dean for Academic Diversity & Inclusive Excellence, Miguel Baique. As he builds a foundation of support to all Watson students from historically underrepresented populations, Baique helps them overcome many obstacles similar to challenges he has faced on his own educational journey. “I get to have the autonomy to develop plans for Watson and to make a real impact,” he says. “It’s exhilarating work, it’s emotional work and it’s personal.”

To have a conversation about investing in the DEI efforts at Watson College, please contact Rebecca Benner, Associate VP for Advancement and Campaign Director, rbenner@binghamton.edu.