• I incorporate diverse perspectives and experiences into my curriculum. I actively seek out readings, examples, and case studies that reflect the diverse backgrounds of my students. This helps them see themselves in the material and connect with it on a deeper level.

• I use culturally relevant pedagogy. I'm mindful of the different learning styles and cultural norms that my students bring to the classroom. I might use more collaborative activities, storytelling, or real-world examples to make the material more engaging and accessible.

• I create a safe and inclusive learning environment. I foster a classroom culture where all students feel respected and valued. I encourage open dialogue, active listening, and respectful disagreement. I'm also mindful of my own biases and work to create an equitable learning experience for all.

• I provide individualized support. I recognize that my students come with diverse needs and challenges. I offer flexible office hours, individualized feedback, and connect students with resources like tutoring or mentoring programs.

• I emphasize critical thinking and social justice. I encourage my students to question assumptions, challenge the status quo, and consider the impact of their actions on others. I want them to be not just knowledgeable in their field, but also engaged citizens who can contribute to a more just and equitable society.

• I foster a sense of belonging in my students, particularly as it relates to their future careers and their place in the broader mathematical community. I do this by showcasing diverse role models in STEM fields, highlighting the contributions of underrepresented groups to mathematics, and creating opportunities for students to connect with professionals and peers at conferences like MATHFest.

• Diversity and Inclusion: MSIs are specifically designed to serve underrepresented populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, low-income students, and first-generation college students. This creates a diverse and inclusive campus environment where students from various backgrounds feel welcomed, supported, and valued.

• Cultural Relevance: MSIs often integrate culturally relevant curriculum and programming that reflects the experiences and perspectives of their student populations. This can lead to a deeper understanding of one's own cultural identity and a greater appreciation for the diversity of others.

• Supportive Environment: MSIs often provide a strong support system with smaller class sizes, dedicated faculty mentors, and comprehensive academic and social support services. This nurturing environment can be particularly beneficial for students who may face additional challenges in their academic journey.

• Community Engagement: Many MSIs have strong ties to their surrounding communities and prioritize civic engagement. This provides students with opportunities to give back, make a difference, and develop valuable leadership skills.

• Career Development: MSIs are often committed to preparing students for successful careers and offer specialized programs, internships, and networking opportunities to help them achieve their professional goals.

• Strategic collaborations: Small MSIs often encourage faculty to seek collaborations with researchers at larger institutions or within their communities. This allows faculty to access resources, expertise, and funding opportunities that may not be available on their own campus.

• Targeted grant-seeking: Faculty at small MSIs are often supported in seeking grants specifically designed for smaller institutions or those focused on underrepresented groups. This can help them secure funding for pilot projects, travel to conferences, or acquire essential research equipment.

• Creative resource allocation: Small MSIs may prioritize allocating resources strategically to support faculty research, even with limited budgets. This could involve providing seed grants, course releases, or access to shared research facilities.

• Mentorship and professional development: Small MSIs often provide mentorship programs and professional development opportunities to help faculty develop their research skills, write successful grant proposals, and navigate the challenges of conducting research at a smaller institution.

By fostering a culture of research and providing targeted support, small MSIs can empower faculty to pursue their scholarly interests, contribute to their fields, and enhance their teaching. This benefits not only the faculty themselves, but also the students who gain valuable research experiences and learn from engaged and accomplished educators.