The White House today announced that ten individuals and nine institutions are winners of the 1997 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring.
This is the second year of the award, administered and funded through the National Science Foundation (NSF). The awards recognize outstanding individual efforts and organizational programs to increase the participation of underrepresented groups in science, mathematics and engineering at the K-12 through graduate level. The awardees were honored at a ceremony held at the White House' Old Executive Office Building.
In 1994, the Clinton Administration's science policy blueprint, Science in the National Interest, stated goals to produce the best trained scientists and engineers for the 21st century and to enhance scientific and technological literacy of all Americans. The presidential mentoring awards are an outgrowth of these goals.
"Science can serve the values and interests of all Americans," stated the president in his commencement address at Morgan State University, "but only if all Americans are given a chance to participate in science."
Up to 10 individuals and 10 institutions annually may qualify for the award, which includes a $10,000 grant and a commemorative presidential certificate.
The mentoring awards recognize a long-term commitment to providing opportunities for greater participation in science and engineering by all Americans.