Kamaljeet Sanghera, a professor at George Mason University, has been appointed to a state commission that will work with government and other entities to reshape Virginia’s curriculum and course design.
The new Virginia Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Education Commission established by Gov. Ralph Northam will be chaired by state first lady Pamela Northam. The commission aims to develop a statewide plan that will prepare students for future STEM jobs.
“This really is an honor,” said Sanghera, an associate professor in the Department of Information Sciences and Technology and the executive director of STEM Outreach for the Volgenau School of Engineering. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to collaborate alongside so many STEM trailblazers across the state. Virginia is doing wonderful things in advancing STEM education and connecting these efforts to the needs of the job market.”
Sanghera is among 43 committee members representing early childhood, K-12, post-secondary, out-of-school, informal and environmental education programs. As Virginia is expected to add nearly 150,000 new STEM jobs over the next five years, commission members will also focus on making STEM education more accessible to underrepresented students.
“As a member of this committee, I will be a part of helping shape and build upon this momentum statewide,” Sanghera said. “I look forward to sharing all of the amazing things we are doing here at George Mason University.”
The commission will report findings and make recommendations by July 1, 2020.
“As a pediatric neurologist, I recognize the importance of having a strong STEM background,” Ralph Northam said in a statement. “Our ability to remain one of the best states for education, innovation and business depends upon how well we prepare our next generation for 21st-century jobs. With its focus on addressing the evolving workforce needs and the persistent disparities in our education system, this commission will play a key role in ensuring we give all our students an opportunity to succeed in STEM-related fields.”