HISTORY

Resources for an Inclusive Future began in the spring of 2006 as a conversation between Yale University and Mississippi State University about the lack of diversity within fields related to environmental sciences. Soon afterwards, The Mississippi Forestry Commission and Alcorn State University joined in the conversation and it was decided that a collaborative effort was needed to help expose under-represented high school students to career opportunities in natural resources and the environment, and the many degree programs available at colleges and universities to help them make those careers a reality.

The program strives to introduce burgeoning young scholars to fields in the environmental sciences and natural resources. The program emphasizes recruiting students from minority backgrounds and the need for diversity of thought, religion, race, gender, and ethnic origin in environmental and natural resources careers and future decisions about the wise management of our natural resources.