2021 STEM FOR ALL VIDEO SHOWCASE COVID, Equity & Social Justice, May 11-18 The COVID-19 pandemic created both challenges and opportunities for student-centered programs that historically relied upon face-to-face interactions. In March, 2020, the National Astronomy Consortium (NAC) and the National and International Non-traditional Exchange (NINE) programs pivoted to virtual research experiences, making creative use of student expertise, technology, and a determination to give participants excellent summer research opportunities. In a significant shift, NAC graduate student alums designed and led the program. In this video, participants describe the unique flavor of the 2021 summer program and Fall Annual Meeting, and discuss the ways in which the virtual format created a more inclusive, diverse experience for the participants. The NAC and NINE are student led programs established by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) and its partners.

Credit: NRAO/AUI/NSF