The official biography below was current at the time of the award. See the organization's website for its latest information.

American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) has mentored and offered support to students since 1979 through its first student chapter. As the proposal indicates, the number of student chapters has grown to 147. The proposal indicates that AISES has empowered students with leadership skills, and information to better prepare students in science and engineering fields. In addition, AISES has provided scholarships to enable students to continue their education and attend AISES conferences by offering opportunities for students to connect with each other and with faculty who are role models at conferences. By offering information through the Internet students are easily able to connect with each other and with the organization. AISES also conducts precollege activities such as science fairs and pre-college math and science camps. Through these activities, AISES has created an environment that nurtures and encourages pre-college and college students to pursue the sciences. According to the proposal, there is a 65 percent college retention rate for AISES members. Materials such as the unique Winds of Change and American Indian College Guide have empowered students' education, contacts, and career. The strengths of the nominee include: Prepares students for careers in science both intellectually and culturally. Provides scholarships and leadership training. Participants give back to the community. Pre-college program including science camps. Growing network of professional scientists and engineers serve as role models for the American Indian youth. Publication of "Winds of Change" is a major outreach mechanism; another way to engage students and role models. Internship program with the Department of Transportation. Web page idea is good. Replications in Canada and New Zealand are underway. In summary, AISES has dem onstrated that it is a unique organization with connections to open doors in many schools and colleges. For all that is stated in the nomination, including its impressive graduation numbers in the sciences, it can be said that AISES has an outstanding record in mentoring Native American youth in the sciences.