SAFE, Seen, and Supported: Two New Approved Grants Projects Lead with Purpose

As the AIChE Foundation celebrates 10 years of Doing a World of Good, two newly approved projects, funded by the Doing a World of Good Fund, are paving the way for a more inclusive and principled future in chemical engineering, where student voices are empowered, and leadership is grounded in accessibility, fairness, and integrity.

“This project is all about meeting students where they are, offering early support in spaces that often go overlooked,” said Adam Caparco, who is leading the initiative. “We’re excited to create opportunities for connection, visibility, and growth in ways that reflect the full diversity of our community.”

The first project, the SAFE Leader Movement, will equip student leaders to champion Safety, Accessibility, Fairness, and Equity in their local chapters and campus communities. Through leadership development, storytelling, and community engagement, this pilot aims to build a network of students prepared to lead with empathy and purpose.

Complementing that effort, the LGBTQIA+ and Allies Pilot Outreach project will bring identity-affirming programming to three regional student conferences, connecting with students who may not attend national events and creating space for them to be seen, heard, and supported. With career panels, socials, and listening sessions, the initiative strengthens early pathways to leadership and belonging across the Institute.

“This project is all about meeting students where they are, offering early support in spaces that often go overlooked,” said Adam Caparco, who is leading the initiative. “We’re excited to create opportunities for connection, visibility, and growth in ways that reflect the full diversity of our community.” Together, these initiatives reflect a shared commitment to nurturing student potential and creating a culture of connection, care, and accountability within the profession.

They also reinforce the core philanthropic priorities of the Foundation, from attracting and retaining top talent, to promoting ethical leadership, and helping shape a more inclusive future for chemical engineering. As the Foundation looks ahead, projects like these offer a powerful glimpse into what the next 10 years of impact can look like.

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