Currently , SDG & E is partnered with The Links , Inc ., an international nonprofit made up of professional women of color who are dedicated to community service and youth leadership development . For decades , the San Diego Chapter of The Links , Inc . has been committed to culturally and economically uplifting African Americans and those of African ancestry . As a part of this objective , the Links Achiever Program has focused on college preparation since its inception , with this year ’ s theme being “ Energy .” Providing emphasis on mentorship , peer support in a collaborative environment , relationship building and career exposure , this leadership program aims to recognize black high school senior men who have distinguished themselves in academics , athletics , the arts , or community service , and are preparing to enter the workforce . The Links Achiever Program has been recognized on a local , regional and national level for its excellence in programming and sustainability .
Building on nearly 30 years of success with the awardwinning Achiever Program , in 2014 The San Diego Links Chapter launched year-round STEM exploration opportunities for younger students with the Links 2 STEM Program . The focus of Links 2 STEM is to address the
significant under‐representation of persons of color , especially women and African Americans , pursuing college degrees in STEM fields . The program accepts 35 African American students in fourth to eight-grade from across San Diego , concentrating on subjects ranging from laboratory science to computer programming , robotics and even hosts field trips . Members meet bi-weekly on Saturdays for their curriculum , mentoring and STEM projects , which involve many unique components . The seventhgrade curriculum includes robotics instruction , giving students hands on experience with the guidance of professionals in the STEM community and the chance for students to design actual rockets and build solar cars . In 2020 , the San Diego Links Chapter established the local San Diego National Society of Black Engineers ( NSBE ) Junior chapter , so that these students could take part in technical competitions at the local , state , and national level .
Of the 15 high school graduates surveyed from their previous program cycle , 14 graduates are currently enrolled in college courses , and 11 graduates selected a major in a STEM discipline . The Links , Inc . continuously partners with other STEM nonprofits and opportunities that will allow their students to connect with scholarships , internships , and further exposure to career pathways .
It is safe to say the future looks bright for The Links , Inc . as they play such a critical role in helping develop our next generation of leaders and bridge the gaps in STEM representation , equity , and achievement .
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