Primarily Undergraduate Institutions and the Astronomy Community

TL;DR

This paper discusses the vital role of Primarily Undergraduate Institutions in astronomy, emphasizing their unique contributions, challenges, and opportunities for fostering an inclusive and diverse professional community.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the experiences, challenges, and opportunities at PUIs, along with recommendations to support astronomy at these institutions.

Findings

PUIs are central to undergraduate astronomy education.

Faculty at PUIs balance teaching and research effectively.

Recommendations for resource support and inclusivity are outlined.

Abstract

This White Paper highlights the role Primarily Undergraduate Institutions (PUIs) play within the astronomy profession, addressing issues related to employment, resources and support, research opportunities and productivity, and educational and societal impacts, among others. Astronomers working at PUIs are passionate about teaching and mentoring undergraduate students through substantive astronomy experiences, all while working to continue research programs that contribute to the advancement of the professional field of astronomy. PUIs are where the majority of undergraduate students pursue post-secondary education, and as such, understanding the unique challenges and opportunities associated with PUIs is critical to fostering an inclusive astronomy community throughout the next decade. We provide a view of the profession as lived and experienced by faculty and students of PUIs, while highlighting the unique opportunities, challenges, and obstacles routinely faced. A variety of recommendations are outlined to provide the supporting structures and resources needed for astronomy to thrive at PUIs over the next decade and beyond - a critical step for a profession focused on fostering and maintaining an inclusive, supportive, and diverse community.