Introduction: Embracing Diversity and Equity in Chemistry Education

The field of chemistry has long been associated with the pursuit of objective facts and the uncovering of the building blocks of our universe. However, this view can often exclude the important role that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) play in the advancement of scientific knowledge. By highlighting the contributions of minority chemists and integrating DEI principles into chemistry education, we can promote a more inclusive environment and foster greater understanding of the complex connections between chemistry and society.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to incorporate DEI into STEM education, and chemistry is no exception. Despite this, there remains a scarcity of learning materials that directly introduce diversity and equality in chemistry education. As a result, students may view chemistry as an isolated discipline that is removed from the broader community.

This book aims to challenge that perception by introducing readers to minority chemists, their research, and the ways in which their work is related to topics taught in general chemistry courses. By exploring the lives and research of chemists who come from diverse backgrounds, we hope to showcase the importance of diverse perspectives in the advancement of the field and inspire a new generation of scientists who embrace and promote DEI in their own work. Each chapter of this book is divided into three main sections, highlighting the personal and professional lives of these extraordinary individuals and demonstrating the impact their work has had on the field.

In the first section, we provide a biography of each chemist, discussing their personal and professional lives and how their minority identity has interacted with their careers. The second section summarizes their research and accomplishments in the field of chemistry, emphasizing the importance of their work and the implications it has had on the broader scientific community. Finally, the third section explores how their research is related to the topics and contents taught in general chemistry, creating a connection between the material students learn in the classroom and the real-world applications of chemistry.

In addition to being an educational resource, this book holds practical value within the classroom. Each chapter of the book includes carefully crafted reading questions that integrate chemistry and sociology concepts, making them ideal for inclusion in mid-term and final exams for chemistry courses. By integrating DEI-focused content into assessments, we hope to encourage students to think critically about the role of diversity and equity in chemistry and beyond.

Ultimately, this book serves as a stepping stone toward a more inclusive and diverse chemistry education. By showcasing the contributions of minority chemists and integrating DEI principles into the learning process, we can inspire future generations of scientists to view chemistry as a field that is not only grounded in objective facts but also deeply interconnected with the broader human experience.

We would like to acknowledge the invaluable support and contributions of the University of Kansas Library and Center of Teaching Excellence. Their assistance through the Open Educational Resources Grant Initiative and Course Transformation Grant has been instrumental in the creation of this book.

Special thanks go to Karna Younger, Josh Bolick, and Heather L. Mac Bean, the librarians who have provided us with ideas and technical support throughout the process of completing this book. Their expertise and guidance have been crucial in shaping its content.

We would also like to express our gratitude to the students in Dr. Shuai Sun’s General Chemistry class. Their enthusiasm and engagement have inspired the author teams to delve deeper into the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM education. Their perspectives and insights have enriched the content of this book.

Thank you to everyone involved for their support and contributions, which have made this project possible.