Workshop to Advise NSF on Proposed Program for Undergraduate Recruitment into Mathematics and Science

Texas A&M Research Foundation, College Station TX

Investigators

Abstract

Community input is necessary in the planning of National Science Foundation initiatives to ensure alignment of program mechanisms with community capacity and needs. This award supports a workshop, attended by representatives from the mathematical and physical sciences community, to advise the NSF Directorate of Mathematical and Physical Sciences on construction of a program to enhance proactive recruitment of undergraduate students in science and mathematics. Such a program addresses the NSF strategic goal to "Cultivate a world-class, broadly inclusive science and engineering workforce, and expand the scientific literacy of all citizens." The concept of an NSF program to support proactive recruitment in the lower division is inspired by the United States (Executive Branch) American Competitiveness Initiative and (Congressional) America Competes Act, both of which include as a goal strengthening the Nation's scientific workforce. Successes in this area catalyzed by the proposed workshop will strengthen US worldwide economic competitiveness through greater recruitment of US students to science and mathematics.