Science with an ngVLA: Reaching Communities and Creating New Opportunities with the ngVLA

TL;DR

This paper discusses how the ngVLA can enhance community engagement and create new educational opportunities, supporting diversity and inclusion in STEM through NRAO's outreach programs.

Contribution

It introduces new outreach opportunities enabled by the development of the next-generation Very Large Array (ngVLA), expanding NRAO's diversity and education initiatives.

Findings

Established diverse outreach programs for underrepresented groups.

Proposes new engagement strategies leveraging ngVLA capabilities.

Highlights potential for increased public awareness of STEM.

Abstract

The Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) and the Education and Public Outreach (EPO) Department serve the strategic goal of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) to broaden public awareness of, support for, and participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). ODI operates a suite of programs designed to support underrepresented minority undergraduate, graduate students in pursuit of careers in STEM. EPO highlights the discoveries, technologies, and careers pioneered and exemplified by the NRAO via multipurpose engagement strategies that include face-to-face and standalone learning programs, products, and public services for the general public and K-12 students, with attention to reaching diverse audiences. These established and diverse programs are described, along with proposals for new, unique opportunities enabled by the development and realization of a next-generation Very Large Array (ngVLA).