Skip To Content Skip To Left Navigation
NSF Logo Search GraphicGuide To Programs GraphicImage Library GraphicSite Map GraphicHelp GraphicPrivacy Policy Graphic
OLPA Header Graphic
 
     
 

NSF Fact Sheet

 

Media contact:

 Bill Noxon

 (703) 292-8070

 wnoxon@nsf.gov

Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring

Background: Approximately 20 recipients receive the award each year -- up to 10 individuals and 10 institutions. The individual award is given to mentors who have demonstrated outstanding and sustained mentoring and effective guidance to a significant number of students at the K-12, undergraduate or graduate education levels. The institutional award is given to organizations that, through institutional programming, have enabled a substantial number of students from groups underrepresented in science, mathematics and engineering to successfully pursue and complete the relevant degree programs.

History: Science in the National Interest, a 1994 national policy document on science and technology, articulated several goals as part of the Clinton Administration's effort to propel the nation into the 21st century on a strong scientific and technological foundation. Two of the major goals are the production of the finest scientists and engineers for the 21st century, and scientific literacy for all.

The Administration committed to maximizing the nation's pool of talented, well-educated, and highly trained scientists and engineers to help achieve those goals. This entails maintaining demonstrated excellence in the production of scientists and engineers by actively increasing the participation of talent that draws fully on all racial/cultural segments of the nation's population.

Rationale for the Mentoring Program: The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy – through its National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) – established the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring in recognition of the critical importance played by visible role models and the power of mentors to affect the development of talent among groups traditionally underrepresented in science, mathematics and engineering

The awards are implemented by NSTC's Committee on Education and Training. They recognize outstanding mentoring efforts and programs that have enhanced the participation of individuals from underrepresented groups (minorities, women and persons with disabilities). The awardees serve as role models and leaders in the national effort to develop more fully the nation's human resources in science, mathematics and engineering.

Administration: The Mentoring awards are administered by the National Science Foundation. Both the individual and the institutional awards include a $10,000 grant to go along with a Presidential commemorative certificate. The monetary award is to be directed back into the recognized mentoring activity.

Related News:

  • NSF PR 99-59: Presidential Award Honors Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentors
  • Summaries of the Individual and Institutional Recipients of the 1999 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring

 

 
 
     
 

 
National Science Foundation
Office of Legislative and Public Affairs
4201 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, Virginia 22230, USA
Tel: 703-292-8070
FIRS: 800-877-8339 | TDD: 703-292-5090
 

NSF Logo Graphic