IMPACT
Diversifying CS To Change The World
THE NUMBERS BEHIND OUR PURPOSE
The Fastest Growing Occupation In The 21st Century
Policies and practices across the educational, workforce, and economic systems have led to Black, Latine, and Native communities being excluded from the computing pipeline. Shutting these individuals out of technology as designers, innovators, and decision-makers exacerbates wealth gaps, exposes these communities to risks through harmful technological innovations, and undermines the quality, creativity, and efficacy of new tech.
While these communities comprise 31% of the US workforce, they only hold 18% of computing jobs (BLS, 2023). Only 19% of CS degrees conferred in 2021 were awarded to Black, Latine, and Native students (NCES, 2021). And while Black, Latine, and Native students make up 45% of public school enrollment across the nation, they only comprise 25% of AP CS course participants and were far less likely to pass the AP exam than white counterparts (College Board, 2022).
Despite the biased perceptions that students from historically-excluded communities merely lacked interest in pursuing a computing career (Koshy et al., 2021), a 2020 study found that race was not a determining factor in student confidence or interest in pursuing CS. Rather, CS exposure was a key correlate to student attitudes and aptitude towards CS (Gallup, 2020). As such, CS programs like SMASH can be instrumental in shaping students’ trajectories.
Cindy Kwok: Paying It Forward
As a high school student, Cindy Kwok found SMASH at a pivotal time in her life. Through the program, she gained critical support and lifelong friends, and it opened doors she once thought were out of reach. With SMASH’s guidance, Cindy landed a full-ride scholarship to UC Berkeley.
Today, Cindy has returned to SMASH as a Residential Advisor, mentoring the next generation of scholars and empowering them to pursue their dreams. She’s paying it forward, just as SMASH did for her.
“SMASH gave me the tools to succeed and inspired me to help others do the same.”
Zuriel Johnson: From Scholarships to Mentorship
When Zuriel Johnson dreamed of attending Morehouse College, he faced a major hurdle: financial aid. SMASH stepped in, teaching him how to navigate the process and encouraging him to apply for 100 scholarships. His hard work paid off— today, Zuriel is a senior at Morehouse on a full scholarship.
Now, as a SMASH Virtual Expert, Zuriel is giving back by helping other students maximize their financial aid opportunities, ensuring they too can achieve their dreams
“SMASH helped me turn my dreams into reality. Now, I’m helping others do the same.”
America: Energized for a Future in Tech
Growing up in Oakland, America faced challenges many couldn’t imagine. Her passion for math and science was undeniable, but finding opportunities and representation was a constant struggle. Everything changed when she joined SMASH.
SMASH provided America with a community that believed in her potential and showed her that her dream of a career in tech was within reach. Now, America is energized, confident, and unafraid to step into the tech world, breaking barriers for herself and others.
“SMASH gave me the confidence to see myself in tech and make it my future.”
Lincoln Fletcher: Redefining the Face of Engineering
For Lincoln Fletcher, becoming an engineer wasn’t just about pursuing a career—it was about changing a narrative. Growing up, he rarely saw Black engineers, and that absence fueled his determination to break barriers.
SMASH gave him more than just technical skills—it gave him the confidence to claim his space in STEM. Today, as a mechanical engineering student, Lincoln isn’t just working toward his degree; he’s working to make sure young Black engineers are no longer the exception, but the expectation.
“I grew up never seeing Black engineers. Now, I’m becoming one, so the next generation never has to wonder if they belong.”
Stephany Serrano: Guiding the Next Generation
For Stephany Serrano, the path to college seemed daunting until she found SMASH. With step-by-step guidance through the application process, SMASH helped Stephanie achieve her dream of attending college.
Today, Stephanie has come full circle. As a Residential Advisor, she’s helping other scholars navigate their paths to higher education and beyond. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of support and mentorship.
“SMASH walked me through every step of the way—and now I’m helping others do the same.”
Make More Stories Like These Possible
Every dollar donated to SMASH helps empower underrepresented students in STEM and Computer Science. Your support opens doors, builds confidence, and creates futures.
💡 Join us today
