All Things STEM

Part III: Surviving the Existential Threat to Higher Education

Episode Notes

In this episode of All Things STEM, host Dr. Frank Gomez welcomes Dr. Christopher Meyer, Dean of Science and Mathematics at Fresno State, and Dr. Lynn Cominsky, Physics Professor at Sonoma State University. Together, they discuss the escalating threats to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in education, the sweeping cuts to federal grant funding, and the profound impacts these changes have on students, faculty, and institutions.

The conversation dives into:

• The termination of billions in federal grants and its toll on campus research, innovation, and student opportunities.
• The dismantling of evidence-based programs like the What Works Clearinghouse, and what that means for education and accountability.
• How faculty and universities are adapting—turning to state initiatives, philanthropy, and industry partnerships for support.
• The broader consequences of policy shifts on DEI, Pell Grants, TRIO programs, and access for low-income and DACA students.
• Resistance from higher education institutions, including lawsuits and campus advocacy, and why leadership and solidarity are more critical than ever.

Dr. Meyer and Dr. Cominsky highlight the human stories behind these policy changes, emphasizing the resilience of students, the responsibility of educators, and the urgent need to safeguard equity and innovation in STEM.