Increasing Recognition of UnderrepresentedSpace Scientists: Lessons Learned from theNomination Task Force Continued Success

The Space Physics and Aeronomy (SPA) Section of the American Geophysical Union (AGU) created a Nomination Task Force (NTF) in 2017 upon concerns that the numbers of women nominated for AGU Fellow were so low, including as low as zero in two of the four preceding years. Since the NTF's inception, the efforts of the NTF leadership and members have significantly enhanced the recognition of underrepresented space scientists, especially of Women, for AGU Honors and Awards. The last four years of data obtained from SPA leadership indicate that the work of the NTF has enhanced the nomination pool rather than occurring at the expense of other nominees. We will share our best practices and success stories with a broad audience to help others build upon the work of the NTF. We will also discuss challenges that we are still facing and provide suggestions for continuing to improve the process. The lessons learned from the NTF's continued success can help in enhancing the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion of under-represented Space Scientists at all career levels.