The official biography below was current at the time of the award. Awardees may choose to provide their latest biographical information on their profile page.

Solomon Bililign has served for over 20 years as a leader in the national effort to fully develop the nation's science, technology, engineering and mathematics workforce by acting as a catalyst in changing the student research and engagement culture at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. His efforts have impacted mentoring and research experiences at five other minority-serving institutions through his service as Director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Interdisciplinary Scientific Environmental Technology Cooperative Science Center. He engages students at all levels by providing and encouraging research experiences, international collaborations, and student participation in professional society activities. Specifically, the number of African American students that he has personally and directly mentored includes approximately 25 middle and high school students, 35 baccalaureate students, 12 master's students and three doctoral students.