KENNESAW, Ga. | Aug 16, 2021

Kennesaw State University’s MAC: Mentoring Architecture Construction student organization has received INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine’s 2021 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award for its role in guiding underrepresented groups toward careers in architecture and construction management.

The award is given to organizations based on their efforts in inspiring and encouraging students to consider careers in STEM through mentoring, teaching, program initiatives and research. Launched in February, MAC is unique in that it is the first registered student organization (RSO) to provide degree-specific peer mentoring to all students in the College of Architecture and Construction Management. The organization will join 78 others nationwide in being recognized in the September issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity.

“As a new RSO, MAC not only supports student success with academic mentoring, but also fosters connections between future architects and future construction managers,” said Kathryn Bedette, associate dean for student success and accreditation in the College of Architecture and Construction Management. “MAC aims to instill a new habit of mentoring in architecture and construction management over time, and this recognition affirms the impact they are making and helps promote the group’s long-term goals.

Starting out with six mentors across four subject areas, MAC has since grown to include 13 mentors assisting their peers in nine subjects. In addition to promoting the fields of architecture and construction management, MAC president Sara Clement said the organization is also active in improving representativeness in the industry. Currently more than 60 percent of the student mentors are women.

“We pride ourselves on being a diverse group focused on connecting students across fields and facilitating a safe space that promotes mentor to mentee relationships,” she said. “Though young, we are looking to increasing our number of mentors and subject areas in order to reach a wider audience and serve as a tool in the success of our peers.”

– Travis Highfield

Photos by David Caselli

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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 45,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.