At San Diego Squared (SD2), their mission is to empower tomorrow’s STEM leaders today. They connect underrepresented students to the power of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) by providing them with access to education, mentorship, and resources to lead the talent workforce.
Co-founders Bill Rastetter and H. Puentes founded SD2 inspired by the principles of belonging, connectedness, empathy and authenticity. The two recognized their shared passion to bridge cultural gaps and create a sense of belonging for underrepresented students in the workforce.
“In today’s STEM workforce, belonging is missing,” Rastetter shared with GB Magazine. “Diversity and inclusion are important parts to the equation, but alone are not sufficient. If we can empower Black, Latinx, and Indigenous students to know that they belong in STEM, then we will have achieved a tremendous amount.”
SD2 is built on four pillars:
Collaborate: SD2 is here to give students their best shot at their brightest future. Their network of advocates and community leaders supports students in building a roadmap to success.
Disrupt: SD2 are innovators at heart and disruptors of the status quo. They believe real change calls for a creative approach.
Act: Together, we have the power, the people, and the platform to change the face of STEM. SD2 exists to deliver real, measurable results.
Represent: SD2 is here to empower a community of leaders and mentors that inspire a new path and a model for success.
SD2 engages these four pillars through the following programs: Community Activation focused on creating interactive events that empower youth, STEM professionals and the community; Squared Fellows program is a long-term mentorship program for underrepresented high school students interested in STEM; Squared Scholars program provides college scholarships paired with year-long mentorships; Squared Interns program connects diverse college students with paid internship opportunities at STEM-driven companies.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.sd2.org.
