Elaine Phompheng, student services specialist in agricultural and biosystems engineering, is the recipient of the Professional and Scientific Award for Diversity Enhancement from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. She contributes to diversity efforts in the department through learning communities, recruitment activities and retention efforts.
Phompheng led the concept, development and implementation of the ABE Students of Color Network. Activities include roundtable discussions about professional topics (career fairs, resumes, interview preparation, etc.), presentations by equity, diversity and inclusion leaders on campus, sponsorship of a resource fair for students of color planned by ABESCN and the ISU student chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, informal outings to share a meal and socialize, networking with ABE faculty, and a panel discussion where graduating seniors in the group provide advice and answer questions. Phompheng organizes the meetings, oversees ABESCN accounting, and meets with student leaders to plan and implement group activities.