Mission and Vision

Our Mission

Increase awareness of, participation in, and access to undergraduate research opportunities for all students across disciplines, with a commitment to expanding engagement among students who have had limited exposure to research experiences, including lower-division students, first-year transfer students, first-generation college students, and those from minoritized backgrounds. Support faculty members in their mentorship of undergraduate researchers, fostering a culture of excellence. As an umbrella office, coordinate and enhance efforts across programs that provide undergraduate research opportunities, ensuring access to research experiences that contribute to student success.

Our Vision

Support a diverse culture of experiential learning, discovery, and innovation by ensuring access to research for every undergraduate student.

Dr. Ever Barraza

Meet the OUR Director

Dr. Ever Barraza is a dedicated director and co-principal investigator on numerous Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) grants, which focus on expanding research opportunities, project-based learning, and peer mentoring interventions to support student success. Since joining Cal Poly Pomona in 2014, Dr. Barraza has worked to develop programs that enhance academic and professional growth for students, particularly in research and innovation. His leadership in HSI initiatives has contributed to increasing access to high-quality educational experiences and improving student outcomes. Dr. Barraza's research explores leadership in HSI grant implementation and the factors that influence student success in higher education. He has examined the experiences of students transferring to four-year institutions and the role of research engagement in their academic and career trajectories. Throughout his career, Dr. Barraza has helped establish and support several research programs, including Achieve Scholars, Engineering Scholars, Project Hatchery, Research through Inclusive Opportunities, Summer Undergraduate Research Experience, and Project INVESTS. These programs provide hands-on research experiences and professional development opportunities that prepare students for future academic and career success.