The non-profit Distance Learning Center (DLC) and its Alliance partners believe that change in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) developmental initiatives is needed to support all learners to become the next generation of STEM doctoral degree holders.

During the second half of the 20th century, we have failed to invest in developmental initiatives designed to produce a significant STEM workforce that reflects all economic/educational populations. To address the critical need of expanding a diverse and representative workforce in STEM fields, the Departments of Cell, Developmental and Cancer, and Surgery at OHSU established a partnership with the Distance Learning Center (DLC) as one of six universities to host and nurture students from the STEMPrep Project and provide these trainees with the foundation for ultimate success in STEM-related careers.

The STEMPrep Project assembles a national cohort of 7th grade high-achieving students who have interest in STEM careers. The program nurtures students in basic science areas across a continuous ten-year pipeline, following a commonsense approach of finding the national STEM talent early, nurturing scientific interest, and aiding in achieving a doctoral degree.