The Organization for Cultural Diversity in Chemistry (OCDC) is a graduate student-led group that creates a close-knit community among graduate students and faculty and promotes cultural diversity in the sciences.
Earlier this year, the Organization for Cultural Diversity (OCDC) hosted 12 students from the local community college, Los Angeles Trade Technical College (LATTC), along with their chemistry professor, Dr. Martin Diaz, on the UCLA campus for a day-long event. The day featured student-led discussions about transferring to a 4-year university and pursuing a career in the sciences.
OCDC, CCCP, SACNAS, and LATTC students
OCDC facilitated this event with the support of two other UCLA organizations, Center for Community College Partnerships (CCCP), who provided valuable information on the transferring process, and Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans (SACNAS), who provided four current UCLA students who transferred from community colleges. The SACNAS students were given the opportunity to present on their current undergraduate research projects. With the success of the event, OCDC plans to continue the program with LATTC and also expand to other community colleges.
Students on a lab tour at Chemistry & Biochemistry
Students on a lab tour at Chemistry & Biochemistry
OCDC’s faculty advisor and Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Dr. Miguel Garcia-Garibay, founded the group through the support of Procter & Gamble (P&G). P&G is a multinational consumer goods company that values excellence and innovation not only in their products but also in their company. Through their support, OCDC continues to enrich the department, the UCLA campus and surrounding communities through outreach programs.
Please visit OCDC’s website for more information.
Thank you to Chemistry & Biochemistry graduate student, Crystal Valdez, for the story and photos.
