Louisiana Tech University welcomes National Science Foundation officials and more than 100 principal investigators from the region as the agency prioritizes expanding research investments in the region. The event is part of NSF’s efforts to improve STEM education in Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) states, including Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi.

During a press conference, Dr. James L. Moore III, deputy director of the U.S. National Science Foundation’s (NSF) STEM Education Directorate (EDU), discussed ongoing initiatives aimed at to drive engagement in research and advance STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) in the region.

“Our mission remains steadfast in promoting the progress of science by advancing the health, prosperity and welfare of the nation and providing for the nation’s defense,” Moore said. “Louisiana Tech is emerging as a regional leader in uniting institutions to drive innovation at scale and speed. We believe our investments here will have a lasting impact, and the NSF is committed to ensuring the Delta region remains informed and engaged.

This gathering is part of a series of events hosted by Louisiana Tech November 12-14, designed to foster collaboration and grant development for state EPSCoR researchers.

Louisiana Tech President Jim Henderson highlighted the partnership between Tech and NSF and their continued commitment to supporting the growth of STEM in the state and creating opportunities for students, faculty and communities.

“Louisiana Tech conducts research that improves the human condition and addresses persistent and emerging global challenges,” Henderson said. “Our partnership with the NSF promotes economic growth and speaks volumes to the entire nation that the work of this institution is valuable and life-changing for so many.”

Louisiana Tech is hosting a two-day NSF-funded grant development workshop, hosted by Louisiana Tech in partnership with Quality Education for Minorities (QEM).

“Dr. Lindsey Keith Vincent and the Science and Technology Center (SciTEC) have focused on STEM education and NSF efforts with the development of grant proposals to provide critical support to NSF educators and researchers. Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi,” Henrietta Pichon, dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences. said. “This collaboration with NSF aims to equip our educators with resources that will ultimately impact students and communities, enabling our region to address emerging challenges and drive innovation in STEM fields.”

Additionally, for the first time outside of the Washington, DC area, the NSF EDU Advisory Committee will hold its fall meeting at Louisiana Tech. The meeting brings together key figures in STEM education and human resource development to provide guidance on NSF’s STEM initiatives.

In addition to the NSF events, the Louisiana Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (LASTEM) Advisory Council will meet on November 14 to discuss advancements in STEM education within the state.