SUNY supports diversity in STEM through partnership between EOP and Watson Scholars

At Binghamton University, two support programs — the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and Watson Scholars Program — are making strides in ensuring students from underrepresented backgrounds in engineering and computer science have the resources they need to succeed. This partnership, strengthened by a SUNY-funded grant, provides financial aid, mentorship and networking opportunities designed to increase student retention and career readiness.

The Watson Scholars Program, launched in 2021, was established to support Pell-eligible students from underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. Fully funded by corporate and alumni donors, the initiative provides everything from internships, professional development seminars and networking events to financial aid for conferences. According to Watson School of Engineering Assistant Dean of Academic Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Carmen Jones, the mission is clear: “Students who typically wouldn’t have these opportunities should have them.”

Major contributors to the program include the Avangrid Foundation, Lockheed Martin, the Raymond Corporation, Visions Federal Credit Union, Bloomberg and several alumni. Their continued support ensures that scholars gain early exposure to industry leaders and career prospects, leveling the playing field for future engineers and computer scientists.

The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) has long been a pillar of academic and personal support at Binghamton University. With a track record of helping students transition into college life and graduate successfully, its partnership with Watson Scholars has amplified its impact in Watson College.

Through this collaboration, EOP provides additional funding, academic resources and structured mentorship for students, ensuring they receive holistic support throughout their university experience.

“Building community is key,” EOP Counselor Cassandra Wentzel said. “We want students to see familiar faces, find support and feel like they belong.”

By pairing first-year students and sophomores with junior and senior scholars, the initiative cultivates mentorship, allowing newer students to see first-hand what success in Watson College looks like. Leaders emphasize that retention in engineering and computer science programs improves when students engage with a strong, supportive network.

The partnership doesn’t stop at academic support — it also prioritizes job placement. Students are encouraged to attend networking events with donors, where they can interact directly with potential employers, mentors and industry professionals.

“Networking is crucial,” Jones said. “Engineering and computer science students focus heavily on their studies, but they also need to make connections to land internships and jobs.”

This emphasis is already paying off — two of this year’s Watson Scholars graduates, the first graduating cohort of the program, secured full-time positions with program sponsors before even crossing the Commencement stage.

With continued funding and institutional backing, Jones hopes the Watson Scholars and EOP collaboration will continue to grow and evolve. By providing opportunities that extend beyond the classroom, the program ensures that students receive financial assistance, academic mentorship, professional networking and a sense of belonging.

“Our students are incredible,” said Wentzel. “The enthusiasm, appreciation and drive they bring to these opportunities remind us why we do this work. And we’re excited to keep expanding what’s possible for them.”

As the partnership between EOP and the Watson Scholars Program continues to evolve, leaders said that inclusion isn’t just about opportunity — it’s about building community.

“Students from underrepresented groups have to see that people are showing up for them,” Jones said. “This collaboration with EOP is so necessary because these students know they have people in their corner.”

Binghamton University EOP recently learned that SUNY Chancellor John B. King has committed to funding a new cohort of EOP engineering students next year, helping talented students break barriers and thrive in industries where representation matters now more than ever.