The National Science Foundation (NSF) administers several awards programs in partnership with the White House. These programs provide Presidential awards that denote remarkable achievement by outstanding scientists, engineers, and educators who demonstrate exceptional leadership in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and STEM education.

National Medal of Science

The President's National Medal of Science is given to individuals who deserve special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to knowledge in the physical, biological, mathematical, engineering, or social and behavioral sciences.

Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST)

The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) Program was established in 1983. The program identifies outstanding mathematics and science teachers, kindergarten through 12th grade, in each state and the four U.S. jurisdictions. These teachers are leaders in the field of science and mathematics education and serve as models for their colleagues and leaders for the profession.. The competition alternates each year between teachers of grades K-6 and teachers of grades 7-12. This Presidential Award is the highest honor bestowed by the United States Government on classroom teachers of mathematics and science.

The call for nominations and application form for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) can be found at http://www.paemst.org/AppPkts.cfm.

Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE)

The Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) embody the high priority placed by the government on maintaining the leadership position of the United States in science.  The PECASE program recognizes outstanding scientists and engineers who show exceptional potential for leadership at the frontiers of knowledge early in their careers, and nurtures their continued development.  The awards are conferred annually at the White House following recommendations from participating agencies.  Each year NSF selects its PECASE nominees from among the most meritorious new CAREER awardees.  This Presidential Award is the highest honor bestowed by the United States Government on scientists and engineers beginning their independent careers.

Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM)

The White House has established the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM) program. The program seeks to identify outstanding mentoring efforts/programs designed to enhance the participation of groups underrepresented in science, mathematics and engineering. The awardees serve as exemplars to their colleagues and are leaders in the national effort to more fully develop the Nation's human resources in science, mathematics and engineering. Nominations to honor individuals and institutions are invited for the competition of these annual awards.

The call for nominations for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM) can be accessed through the NSF Online Document System.