RUSTON, LA – Louisiana Tech University is at the forefront of advancing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education and research as it welcomes officials from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and more than 100 regional principal investigators. The event, part of the NSF’s mission to boost research investment in Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) states like Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi, emphasizes collaboration and innovation in STEM fields.
NSF Commits to Expanding Research Impact
During a press conference, Dr. James L. Moore III, assistant director for the NSF Directorate for STEM Education (EDU), underscored the importance of NSF’s role in the Delta region.
“Our mission remains steadfast in promoting the progress of science by advancing the national health, prosperity, and welfare of the nation and to secure the nation’s defense,” Moore said. “Louisiana Tech is emerging as a regional leader in uniting institutions to drive innovation at scale and speed.”
Strengthening NSF-Louisiana Tech Partnerships
The event marks a series of collaborative initiatives held from Nov. 12-14, including a two-day NSF-funded grant development workshop hosted by Louisiana Tech in partnership with Quality Education for Minorities (QEM). The workshop aims to assist researchers in securing funding and fostering impactful projects.
Louisiana Tech President Jim Henderson highlighted the university’s dedication to supporting STEM research and education, emphasizing the transformative role the NSF plays in the region.
“Louisiana Tech conducts research that improves the human condition and addresses enduring and emerging global challenges,” Henderson said. “Our partnership with the NSF fosters economic growth and speaks volumes to the entire nation that the work at this institution is valuable and is changing the lives of so many.”
First NSF EDU Advisory Committee Meeting Outside D.C.
In a landmark move, Louisiana Tech will also host the NSF EDU Advisory Committee’s fall meeting, marking the first time the event has taken place outside Washington, D.C. This meeting brings together influential figures in STEM education to guide NSF initiatives and further the impact of STEM in human resource development.
Driving STEM Innovation Across the Region
Dr. Henrietta Pichon, Dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences, highlighted Louisiana Tech’s focus on supporting educators and researchers through programs like the university’s Science and Technology Center (SciTEC).
“This collaboration with the NSF aims to equip our educators with resources that will ultimately impact students and communities, allowing our region to address emerging challenges and drive innovation in STEM fields,” Pichon said.
The university will also host a meeting of the Louisiana Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Advisory Council (LASTEM) on November 14, focusing on advancements in STEM education statewide.
For more information on the NSF events and ongoing STEM initiatives at Louisiana Tech, visit www.latech.edu.