NASA and the NAACP have signed a Space Act Agreement aimed at enhancing diversity and engagement for underrepresented students in STEM fields. This partnership will integrate NASA STEM lessons into the NAACP's ACT-SO program, providing mentorship and real-world experiences for students of color. Additionally, NASA is investing $7.2 million in six minority-serving institutions to promote engineering disciplines, reinforcing its commitment to diversity in STEM education. NASA officials, including Shahra Lambert, emphasize the importance of creating pathways for underserved groups in STEM. However, concerns have been raised about NASA's internal practices, with criticism regarding claims of discrimination against white male engineers and the reliance on subcontracting to meet diversity goals. The discussions around these initiatives reflect the complexities of fostering inclusivity while addressing operational challenges within the agency.