Increasing participation in the geosciences requires intentional partnerships, sustained mentoring, and accessible research experiences. This project establishes a long‑term collaboration between Tennessee State University (TSU), an HBCU, and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) to strengthen Earth and planetary science education, research engagement, and workforce preparation. The initiative integrates faculty exchanges, joint mentoring structures, paid undergraduate research internships, and expanded access to UTK's introductory online geology courses.
In summers 2024 and 2025, eight TSU undergraduates completed up to four weeks of immersive research experience at UTK and remote project development at TSU. Students engaged in diverse laboratory and field projects, including microplastic–microbe interactions, drone‑based park surveys, mussel ecology, mineralogical analysis using X‑ray diffraction, water quality testing, vertebrate paleontology, and regional geology fieldwork. Students also developed independent research questions, strengthening ownership of the scientific process. UTK faculty additionally delivered virtual and in‑person guest lectures at TSU to increase visibility of geoscience pathways and recruit participants.

Project outcomes indicate substantial academic and professional gains. Students reported increased confidence in laboratory and field techniques, improved analytical skills, and a deeper understanding of scientific methods. Additionally, eleven TSU students presented research at the Tennessee Academy of Sciences, where exposure to scientific communication, networking, and peer feedback strengthened interest in graduate school and future research opportunities. Faculty were also encouraged to receive mentoring‑training resources to enhance undergraduate research engagement. Most of the students have either already started graduate school or have committed to attend graduate school in a related field in the future.

Early evaluation suggests that structured, relationship‑centered collaborations can meaningfully expand access to geoscience experiences, support student identity development, and contribute to a more diverse geoscience workforce. Ongoing assessment by the National Institute for STEM Evaluation and Research (NISER) will track long‑term impacts through student publications, presentations, graduate admissions, and qualitative feedback.