BRANCHES Community Leaders

BRANCHES (Bridging Resources and Nurturing Community through Holistic Engagement in STEM) at Oberlin College supports an inclusive community for underrepresented students in STEM. Under the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) and the Center for Learning, Education, and Research (CLEAR), we bridge resources to help all students reach their full potential.

Student community leaders, supported by CLEAR and OUR staff, drive BRANCHES to meet the unique needs of underrepresented STEM students. We strive to dismantle systemic barriers by providing vital connections, opportunities, and pathways for success.

BRANCHES initiatives include academic support, professional development events like the Research Opportunities and Post-Oberlin Career Panel, and community-building activities such as Roller Skating, Pumpkin Carving, and the BRANCHES & Boba event.

BRANCHES advocacy aims to address structural barriers in STEM at Oberlin. Through surveys, workshops, and educational content, we elevate underrepresented voices and educate the broader community on diversity in STEM.

By building a supportive community, BRANCHES empowers underrepresented students to thrive in STEM, inspire others, and contribute to a more inclusive world. Formerly known as the Student Leadership Committee (SLC), BRANCHES rebranded in Spring 2023 to reflect its mission of building connections across groups like Roots in STEM and OWLS. Today, BRANCHES is funded and managed by CLEAR and OUR staff, with student community leaders playing a central role. 

Past events include BRANCHES & Boba, Pancakes with Professors, Listening Sessions, student research panels, alumni panels, and movie nights.

Follow BRANCHES on Instagram for updates on events and resources: @oberlinbranches.