Abstract
<p>Cohort programs that foster inclusive excellence in the biomedical sciences typically bring together a group of researchers from minoritized and excluded backgrounds to provide them with professional development, mentoring, and occasionally, funds to support their training. Here, the authors analyzed short answer responses from an evaluation survey sent to multiple cohorts of a program for graduate students that aims to foster inclusion in the biomedical sciences and is funded by a large private foundation. The authors engaged in thematic analysis of responses, which confirmed the previously described value of cohort programs: the creation of the cohort itself, the annual program meetings, and connecting scholars to a broader network of scientists. Additionally, the authors confirm prior literature demonstrating the value of the career and professional development cohort programs provide. This support is especially impactful where there are gaps in programming or protected time for such development at graduate students’ home departments and institutes. Of note, the authors highlight that graduate students see cohort program leadership, and the institute which funds the program, as well positioned to drive meaningful policy and programming changes across the academic landscape. These results provide important insights, particularly for foundations, institutes, and professional societies committed to fostering inclusive excellence in the current landscape, for the improvement of their existing cohort programs and development of new ones.</p>