ATMOS

As the largest and most diverse business school in Oregon, we believe diversity, cultural awareness, and the inclusion of all people is paramount for institutional impact and global change. We believe inclusion and excellence are not mutually exclusive. This belief motivates everything we do.

The Atmos program supports diverse and underrepresented undergraduate business students of color and is a promise of academic, career and community support to help create an avenue for a brighter future. We are committed to the success of each Atmos student. It is our Atmos promise that our underrepresented students obtain a sense of belonging and community not just within The School of Business but on the greater Portland State campus.

It is the Atmos plan that our students who are Black, Indigenous, and students of color, LGBTQIA+, students with disabilities, and undocumented, will defy the odds and national statistics in terms of persistence rate and earning their business degree on time.

Our Mission

To increase diversity in the business world by strengthening today's diverse and underrepresented business students of color, offering scholarships, mentoring students, providing academic support, engaging in professional development, and contributing to career placement services.

Our Vision

Transformation

Our students are equipped to overcome barriers, which hinder their academic and professional success by preparing them for employment within their chosen career field upon graduation.

Cultivating Connections and Community

We believe in helping each Atmos student obtain a sense of belonging and community within The School of Business, the greater Portland State campus, and our city. Our community is a powerful support network to help students graduate on time and ahead of the curve.

Celebrating Successes

We provide narratives of who our students are and we celebrate their accomplishments.

Our Dream

To be the go-to business school in the Pacific Northwest for diverse students seeking an excellent experience and for businesses looking torecruit diverse talent. 

Apply to join Atmos

Among other support programs to engage its students, the Atmos program provides scholarships that celebrate the contribution of diverse perspectives to the business world.

Eligibility requirements:

  • Have declared business as your major and be officially admitted to The School of Business in good standing.
  • Self-identified as a part of a traditionally underrepresented community across college campuses.
  • Willing to follow specific Atmos requirements based on academic year at PSU.
  • Must attend an Atmos Orientation to be fully onboarded to the program. 
Diana Canas

Atmos Program DEI Specialist: Diana Cañas

Annual Programming and Events

Atmos Onboarding Orientation and Check-In for Returning Students

On the Saturday prior to Fall quarter start, Atmos onboards incoming students while also checking in and revisiting expectations with returning students.

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Empowering Leaders of Color in Business

This year’s theme, "Bio(Diversity):The Life Cycle of a 'Diversity' Hire." Too often in the workplace, professionals of color are brought on by a company’s attempt to “diversify” their workplace. While the company may have good intentions, in doing so, the impact of this is often worse and leads to high turnover rates. "Diversity hires" usually begin their jobs excited and energetic to inspire change, only to eventually be burdened with hidden labor that goes unpaid. This exploitation eventually leads to burnout and resignation. Thus, the cycle is reborn. Featured Panelists included: Antoinette Chandler, CFO, Port of Portland; Claire Pascual, university recruiter, New Relic, Inc.;
and, Marcus Carter II, director of DEI, First Tech Federal Credit Union.