Native Americans in Marine Science

Oregon State University, Corvallis OR

Investigators

Abstract

Caldwell/00-03699 This award provides renewed funding for a program called "Native Americans in Marine Science" or NAMS. The program recruits Native American and Native Alaskan students for undergraduate programs at the University of Oregon. The long-term goal of this program is to increase the number of minority students who complete degrees in science, continue their studies in graduate school, and enter the scientific work force. The program was initiated in 1991 and has provided the financial support and mentoring necessary for 87 students to continue their higher education and gain research experience. The program has a student retention rate of 97%, which is remarkable for Native Americans in college. The award provides funding to support 20 students each year for the next five years. The program provides the students with the financial support necessary to remain in school, but also with the networking, mentors, and emotional support necessary to sustain minority students who have no family history of higher education.