The Duke SPIRE Fellows is a deeply responsive mentoring and academic support system for high-achieving undergraduates from diverse backgrounds with an interest in pursuing a major and/or career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Duke SPIRE – which stands for STEM Pathways for Inclusion, Readiness, and Excellence – builds on the power of academic mentoring and STEM learning communities. Such community groups take classes together, work through homework and projects together, and support each other. SPIRE also provides high-level STEM tutoring, academic skills development, and access to a network of STEM role-models/mentors. Duke SPIRE Fellows have many opportunities to learn how to network with faculty, alumni, and industry leaders – and in turn, envision their own successful career path.