ONR strengthens partnerships at Hispanic-American conference

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) will promote its science and technology opportunities at the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) 25th Annual Conference, Oct. 29-31, in San Antonio.

The annual event provides a forum for ONR, the Department of the Navy's (DoN) science and technology provider, to interact with academic professionals who are seeking funding, internship and fellowship opportunities. It is aimed at improving education for Hispanics and is attended primarily by university administrators, which makes it unique among ONR's exhibit and outreach activities.

"HACU has an influential presence with a membership comprised of schools that represent a significant portion of the country's Hispanic-serving institutions," said Dr. Anthony Junior, director, DoN Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions Program office. "That gives the Navy an opportunity to strengthen its partnership with HACU to stimulate greater participation in our programs."

The ONR exhibit will feature information about science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related funding programs and prospective careers for attendees. It also will highlight research opportunities at Navy laboratories for university faculty members, undergraduates and graduate students.

"ONR supports the Department of Defense [DoD] in expanding ways to include Hispanic-serving institutions in DoD programs and opportunities, so this venue really supports those objectives," Junior said.

The conference is expected to attract an estimated 3,000 attendees. The event will showcase other successful programs and initiatives at HACU member institutions and feature discussions about relevant policy issues and emerging trends in higher education.

Provided by Office of Naval Research