Kyle Mandapat - Guam EPSCoR

January 21, 2026January 21, 2026

UOG sustainability partners unite to welcome students at orientation with comprehensive outreach experience

Members from programs were on hand to explain and promote the offerings to new students to UOG. The sustainability group included representatives from over 10 programs within UOG CIS and Sea Grant and Guam NSF EPSCoR.

Ella Fedenko from the UOG CIS and Sea Grant turtle project and Franki Guerrero from Guam NSF EPSCoR provide incoming students with information on their projects and potential fellowship opportunities. The two programs were among the many represented by the group.

Students had hands-on exposure to many native plants through the presentations from the UOG CIS and Sea Grant Natural Resources Division and members its Island Conservation Lab.

The University of Guam’s commitment to sustainability and student opportunity was on full display during the recent UOG New Student Orientation event organized by the UOG’s student services team, where a coalition of campus programs came together to present a unified, student-focused welcome.

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant), NSF Navigating Home, Guam NSF EPSCoR, the SEAS Islands Alliance, and Guam Green Growth collaborated to host a comprehensive booth designed to introduce new and returning students to a wide range of academic, research, and fellowship opportunities centered on sustainability and island resilience.

Rather than operating as separate programs, the partners intentionally created a shared space that highlighted how their efforts intersect—connecting environmental research, workforce development, Indigenous knowledge, and community-based solutions. Staff and student representatives were on hand throughout the event to answer questions, distribute informational materials, and encourage students to explore pathways that align with their academic interests and career goals.

“Our goal was to make it easy for students to see the bigger picture,” said Gabby Topasna from UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “These programs are deeply connected, and together they offer students hands-on experiences, paid fellowships, research opportunities, and mentorship focused on sustainability issues that matter here on Guam and across the region.”

Students visiting the booth learned about opportunities ranging from undergraduate research and internships to fellowships and professional development programs supported by the National Science Foundation. Programs such as Navigating Home and Guam NSF EPSCoR emphasized pathways for students to engage in place-based research, while the SEAS Islands Alliance and Guam Green Growth showcased regional partnerships and applied solutions aimed at building a more sustainable island future.

“The student experience is a large part of what makes our programs successful,” said Franki Guerrero from Guam NSF EPSCoR. “Showing them the opportunities that lie within our programs that not only help them learn and get that hands-on experience but also help them deal with some of the costs via our stipends, really goes a long way in helping them navigate through this time of their lives.”

The collaborative booth also served as a platform to highlight ongoing sustainability initiatives at UOG, reinforcing the university’s role as a leader in addressing climate change, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience in island communities.

Programs represented include:

UOG CIS and Sea Grant Turtle Program
Guam NSF EPSCoR (E-Core and E-Rise)
Micronesia Challenge
Guihan for Guahan
Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW)
UOG CIS and Sea Grant Natural Resources (Island Conservation Lab)
Guam Green Growth Action Framework
G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub
NSF Navigating Home & SEAS Islands Alliance
UOG CIS and Sea Grant Community Engagement

For many students, the booth was their first introduction to the breadth of sustainability-focused work taking place on campus. Organizers said the response underscored the value of presenting a coordinated message that connects academic programs with real-world impact.

As UOG continues to expand its sustainability and research initiatives, presenters noted that events like student orientation are critical moments to engage students early, helping them see how their education can contribute to meaningful solutions for Guam and the wider region.

January 16, 2026January 21, 2026

UOG recruiting members for the sixth season of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps

The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps is gearing up for its sixth season with applications now open at guamgreengrowth.org. Those interested in sustainability and the emerging green economy are welcomed to apply. Field work, research modules and community work are all a part of the upcoming season’s curriculum.

Members of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps will participate in a 5-month long workforce development program that will provide training and skills for the emerging green economy. Full time positions are available and require a 40 hour a week commitment. Applications are open now.

The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps is a workforce development program that will feature focus areas such as agriculture, aquaculture, island beautification, circular economy, invasive species, fisheries research and more.

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) are happy to announce that applications are now open for the sixth season of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC), continuing their robust workforce development plan that has graduated nearly 100 local workers who have developed skills for the emerging green economy.

The G3CC offers participants hands-on experience in conservation, sustainability, and climate-related projects that support Guam’s natural resources while building job-ready skills. Since its launch, the program has served as a pathway for residents of all backgrounds and ages to gain practical training, professional mentorship, and paid service opportunities aligned with Guam’s green economy goals.

“The G3 Conservation Corps is our flagship workforce development program preparing local workers for careers in the green economy. Its success has led to expansion into four additional companion programs,” explained Austin Shelton Ph.D., the director for UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “This Corps is a great launchpad for a new career path, a refresher, or for you to work on something you are already passionate about in sustainability. We invite all interested community members to apply today.”

Members of the Conservation Corps work on projects that may include watershed restoration, invasive species management, circular economy, food security efforts, aquaculture, agriculture, and community education. The program emphasizes leadership development, teamwork, and civic engagement, preparing participants for future careers in environmental fields.

Annania Nauta Kemp, the lead for the community engagement program has seen great results in past cohorts and looks forward to further growth for the island community.

“We have had people join straight out of high school who are now very comfortable in their career path thanks to the network and experience this program builds,” explained Kemp. “At the same time, we have retirees who are ready for their next adventure and accountants who just wanted a change of scenery come out of the program very well, too. If you feel the call to serve your community and are ready to learn and get down in the dirt with us, this can be a great way for you to shape your future.”

Now entering its sixth cohort, the program reflects growing interest and sustained momentum in Guam Green Growth’s broader mission to balance economic development with environmental protection and social well-being.

“This program really changed my perspective on sustainability and how we can make things better for our people of Guahan,” said Joseph Certeza, a G3CC Season 1 graduate who now works as a part of the program team. “This program taught me a lot, and helped me to gain not only the skills, but also the confidence to move forward in the eras of my life.”

Applications for the sixth cohort are open now and available online at GuamGreenGrowth.org. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early and review eligibility requirements and program details on the website.

Selected team members will receive a bi-weekly stipend of $1300 and continuing education credits from the University of Guam through the Global Learning and Engagement program. Applicants must be 18 years or older, open to indoor and outdoor work, and able to work full-time at 40 hours a week.

To apply for the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps and to learn more about other G3 initiatives, visit GuamGreenGrowth.org.

January 9, 2026January 14, 2026

Call for Proposals Opens for 2026 UOG Conference on Island Sustainability

The University of Guam is now accepting presentation proposals for its 2026 Conference on Island Sustainability, scheduled to take place April 20-24 at the Hyatt Regency Guam. Abstracts can be submitted for oral presentations, poster presentations, or workshops at uog.edu/cis2026.

The University of Guam is now accepting presentation proposals for its 17th Conference on Island Sustainability, scheduled to take place April 20-24, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Guam.

Under the theme “Illuminating the Path to Prosperity,” the annual conference will bring together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing island communities in the Pacific region and beyond.

Prospective presenters have until January 17, 2026, to submit abstracts for consideration. The conference organizing committee is seeking proposals that explore innovative approaches to sustainable development, climate resilience, economic growth, and environmental stewardship in island contexts.

“We are excited to welcome the latest research and actions advancing sustainability solutions from around the world for CIS2026,” said Austin Shelton Ph.D., director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant). “Last year’s conference featured over 190 presenters including representatives from over 21 states, countries and islands and of course amazing talent from Guam.”

The week-long event, which welcomed over 1200 participants last year, has become a cornerstone gathering for those working on sustainability issues specific to island environments, where geographic isolation, limited resources, and climate vulnerability create distinct challenges that require specialized solutions.

Registration for the conference is now open through the university’s website at uog.edu/cis2026, where interested participants can also find detailed submission guidelines and information about presentation formats.

The University of Guam has hosted the Conference on Island Sustainability as a platform for advancing knowledge and fostering collaboration on critical issues affecting island territories and island regions worldwide.

For more information about abstract submission requirements and conference registration, visit uog.edu/cis2026.

October 23, 2025November 17, 2025

Guam Green Growth Makerspace to hold weaving and laser engraver workshops to close out October

Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub technician Justin Cruz works with attendees of a laser engraver workshop at the CHamoru Village campus. The group will host another laser engraver workshop to close out October's training schedule.

Participants in a weaving workshop at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub learn the CHamoru Skills of creation with the coconut leaves. A katupat weaving workshop, compete with celebratory kadu, will be help this month at the CHamoru Village campus.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub has announced two workshops to be hosted at their CHamoru Village campus showcasing both cultural knowledge and high-tech innovation.

Fiber Laser Engraver Workshop

The fiber laser engraver workshop, to be held on Thursday, October 23rd from 5pm to 7:30pm, is geared toward the future of local entrepreneurship and design.

This modern, technical training will introduce attendees to the sophisticated world of fiber laser engraving, a process used for permanent marking and customization on materials like metals, plastics, and various industrial components. This skill is highly sought after in modern fabrication, manufacturing, and personalized gift industries.

“The workshop is perfect for designers, small business owners looking to expand their product offerings, or anyone interested in learning how to operate powerful, precision technology,” explained G3 Makerspace Coordinator Emily Wendte. “Mastering this tool provides a direct pathway into high-value, digitally driven production.”

Finanåguen Tinifok Katupat Weaving Workshop with Kadu

On the other end of the maker spectrum this weaving workshop, which will be held on Thursday, October 30th from 5pm to 7:30pm, focuses on the art of weaving the katupat, a diamond-shaped pouch traditionally woven from coconut leaves to hold rice. More than just a craft, tinifok (weaving) is a vital part of CHamoru heritage, blending sustainability with a functional art form.

Led by CHamoru weaver Martha Tenorio, the workshop provides hands-on instruction in this generational skill. It is a powerful chance for attendees to actively engage in cultural preservation, ensuring this traditional knowledge and the intricate, natural beauty of katupat continue to thrive.

According to Abby Crain the G3 Circular Economy Coordinator, along with the weaving showcase, participants will be treated to some kadu, or CHamoru Stew, to eat with the rice cooked in the katupat.

These two events highlight a strong community focus on holistic development. By valuing the knowledge passed down through generations—like the weaving of the katupat—while simultaneously developing modern digital manufacturing skills, the island community builds a resilient, prosperous, and culturally secure future.

Interested participants are encouraged to secure their spots soon as capacity is limited for these specialized sessions. Registration can be completed digitally at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/guam-green-growth-circular-economy-makerspace and more information about the G3 Makerspace is available at guamgreengrowth.org.

October 10, 2025December 15, 2025

UOG’s G3 Makerspace hosts 3D printing workshop that connects goals with skills

Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub’s Shawn Garcia recently led a 3D Printing workshop at the group’s CHamoru Village location. The workshop is the latest from the G3 Makerspace that aims to bring the benefits of 3D printing and additive manufacturing to local makers and business owners.

The Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub hosts regular workshops in their space in Hagåtña which include 3D printing, weaving, textiles, sewing, laser cutting and more. Full workshop schedules can be found on guamgreengrowth.org.

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Research Education and Extension Fellow Napu Blas assists during the workshop at the G3 Makerspace. The 3D printing workshop welcomed participants from many age groups including students and local makers.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub (G3 Makerspace) recently hosted a 3D Printing Workshop, offering the community hands-on experience with cutting-edge additive manufacturing technology. The event was a part of the G3 Sustainable September lineup, a month-long series dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on the island.

The workshop, designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of 3D modeling and prototyping, demonstrated how this technology fits into the island’s circular economy model. Attendees learned how digital design translates into physical objects, exploring the process from conceptualization to the final print. This practical knowledge empowers participants to create functional items while minimizing waste.

The session was led by Shawn Garcia, who guided attendees through the use of the G3 Makerspace’s specialized equipment. Garcia emphasized the potential of 3D printing to utilize recycled materials, aligning directly with the G3 Makerspace’s mission to transform waste streams into valuable resources. The workshop highlighted the Makerspace’s commitment to building a local green workforce capable of driving innovation.

“Events like this 3D printing workshop are really important because they bridge the gap between the sustainability goals and tangible, actionable skills,” said Garcia. “By teaching and sharing these skills, we are working to grow a community of creators who can develop local solutions for local challenges.”

The G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub, located in the CHamoru Village, serves as a resource center for entrepreneurs, artisans, and students looking to integrate circular practices into their work, further strengthening Guam’s commitment to a more prosperous and sustainable future.

Monthly workshop schedules are available along with registration access at www.guamgreengrowth.org and on the G3 Makerspace’s official Instagram @guamgreengrowthmakerspace.

June 30, 2025June 30, 2025

Students board the Nautilus vessel before Marianas Trench expedition

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Students from the University of Guam’s (UOG) National Science Foundation Inclusion across the Nation of Communities of Learners of Underrepresented Discoverers in Engineering and Science (INCLUDES), Navigating Home and Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) programs recently embarked on an extraordinary journey of scientific discovery, touring the state-of-the-art research vessel, Nautilus Live. This unique opportunity provided future island scientists with an invaluable firsthand look into cutting-edge ocean exploration and research.

The three capacity building programs operate of out the UOG and are dedicated to broadening participation and fostering STEM education and aims to empower the next generation of marine and environmental scientists. The tour of Nautilus Live perfectly aligns with this mission, offering a tangible connection to the deep-sea research that shapes our understanding of the ocean.

Franki Guerrero of the UOG Capacity Building Team works closely with the students through their journeys and fellowships.

“I enjoyed seeing the students have a chance to really visualize the kind of science that is at work around our region,” said Guerrero. “They are taking away a lot of great information and inspiration from this tour.”

Operated by the Ocean Exploration Trust (OET), Nautilus Live is renowned for its telepresence-enabled expeditions, allowing scientists and the public worldwide to participate in real-time deep-sea exploration. The vessel is equipped with advanced remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and mapping systems, enabling the discovery and documentation of new marine species, geological formations, and historical artifacts on the seafloor. The vessel will be conducting an expedition to the nearby Marianas Trench.

During their immersive tour, UOG students explored various sections of the vessel, including the control room where ROVs are piloted, the data labs where scientific observations are processed, and the communication hubs that transmit live feeds from the ocean depths. They had the chance to interact with the ship’s crew and scientists, gaining insights into the diverse careers available in oceanography and marine science.

The visit to Nautilus Live underscores the University of Guam’s commitment to providing its students with unique, impactful learning experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom setting. By connecting with leading global research initiatives like the Ocean Exploration Trust, UOG continues to cultivate a capable and engaged workforce ready to address the pressing environmental challenges facing island communities.

April 24, 2025April 24, 2025

UOG opens applications for summer math programs

$The Guam NSF EPSCoR Summer Math programs are open for applications. The Summer Math Research Assistant and Summer Math Research Experience is open for students from Sophomore, Junior, Senior and Graduate levels.$

The University of Guam (UOG) has exciting summer research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students passionate about mathematics through two distinct programs supported by the National Science Foundation Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (Guam NSF EPSCoR). Applications are now being accepted for both the Summer Math Research Assistant and the Summer Math Research Experience programs.

These programs offer a unique chance for motivated students to engage in cutting-edge mathematical research under the guidance of UOG faculty. Participants will gain invaluable hands-on experience, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and contribute to ongoing research projects with real-world applications.

Summer Math Research Assistant Program:
This program is open for college seniors and recent graduates looking to immerse themselves deeply in a specific research area. Summer Math Research Assistants (SMRA) will work closely with a faculty mentor on an existing research project, contributing to data collection, analysis, modeling, and potentially even manuscript preparation. This intensive experience provides a strong foundation for future graduate studies or careers in STEM fields.

“This is an incredible opportunity for undergraduates to get their feet wet in the world of mathematical research,” said Leslie Aquino PhD, a mathematics professor at UOG and a faculty member for the Guam NSF EPSCoR program. “Students will not only learn advanced mathematical concepts but also develop the crucial skills of collaboration, communication, and independent inquiry.”

Summer Math Research Experience Program:
The Summer Math Research Experience (SMRE) offers a broader introduction to mathematical research. College sophomores and juniors will work in small groups on focused research questions, exploring different areas of mathematics and their applications. This program emphasizes collaborative learning and provides a supportive environment for students to develop their research interests.

According to Guam NSF EPSCoR project associate Franki Guerrero, participants will receive various benefits including a stipend.

“The Summer Math Research Program is more than just an academic experience, it’s a chance to explore STEM in action, and build lasting mentorships,” explained Guerrero. “In addition, SMRE students receive a $4,800 stipend, and SMRAs earn $ 5,400 for the 8 weeks they will be in the program, making it both educational and financially supportive.”

Interested students are encouraged to visit the Guam NSF EPSCoR website at guamepscor.uog.edu for information about each program. Applications are being accepted until May 9, 2025.

January 10, 2025January 10, 2025

Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps now recruiting for fifth season

The Guam Green Growth Connservation Corps is recruiting members for its upcoming fifth season. Members will be involved with various sustainability linked projects including work with invasive species and other wildlife.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) is now accepting applications for its upcoming fifth season. This five-month program provides twelve adults with valuable hands-on experience in environmental conservation and sustainability to develop the workforce for the emerging green economy.

Participants in the G3CC will engage in a variety of projects focused on environmental protection, restoration and sustainability, including:

Agriculture and Aquaculture
Circular Economy and Zero Waste
Ocean Conservation
Invasive Species Management
Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy
Watershed Restoration and Reforestation
Island Beautification

In addition to gaining valuable work experience, G3CC participants will receive professional development training, including leadership, teamwork skills, career readiness training, first aid certification and more.

Austin Shelton, Ph.D., the director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, who facilitate the G3CC program, says the program’s success has enabled its continuation and expansion.

“This will be our fifth cohort of participants with this original conservation corps, but since we launched, the impact multiplies with many graduates now employed with different agencies, groups and businesses in the green economy,” said Shelton. “The program expanded to include additional opportunities in the G3 Local2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps, the G3 Art Corps, and the G3 Kupu Corps.”

According to Shelton, nearly 100 people have graduated from one of the G3 Conservation Corps since the program’s launch in 2021.

“This program is perfect for people who are looking to make a change in their career path, for those who are ready o rededicate themselves to sustainability on Guam, or those who have always had a connection to sustainability and want to grow those skills,” added Shelton.

The selected applicants will receive continuing education credits from the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Office (GLE) and a stipend of $1300.00 every two-weeks. Two supervisors will also be selected from the applicants, who will receive $1500.00 bi-weekly.

Applications are being accepted until January 13, 2025 via the official program website at www.guamgreengrowth.org. Information about eligibility and more can be found on the website as well.

December 30, 2024January 2, 2025

University of Guam invites abstracts for 2025 Conference on Island Sustainability

Peter Houk Ph.D., of the University of Guam Marine Laboratory presented at the 15th UOG Conference on Island Sustainabiliy in 2024. Researchers from all over the world are encouraged to submit an abstract for CIS2025 to be held in Tumon, Guam in April.

The University of Guam (UOG) is now accepting abstracts for the 16th annual Conference on Island Sustainability (CIS2025), a premier gathering for researchers, policymakers, and community members dedicated to building a more sustainable future for island communities.

The conference, themed “Solutions for our Future,” will be held from April 7-12, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Guam. It will feature a diverse range of presentations, workshops, and discussions on topics in line with the Guam Green Growth five categories of action and sustainability for islands.

The five categories of action are:

Healthy and Prosperous Communities
Educated, Capable and Compassionate Island
Sustainable Homes, Utilities and Transportation
Thriving Natural Resources
Sustainable Alliances

UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, D.B.A., and Governor Lourdes Leon Guerrero will serve as co-chairs for the conference.

“The annual CIS provides opportunities to present research and applied solutions that contribute to island and global sustainability. We invite academic and industry experts to share their discoveries or insights to a broader audience that have practical applications to bring sustainability solutions,” said Enriquez.

The UOG Conference on Island Sustainability is an annual event that has been held since 2010. It is the largest and most comprehensive conference on island sustainability in the Pacific region, attracting participants from around the world.

“We are excited to once again host this important conference, which brings together some of the brightest minds in sustainability to come up with tangible solutions for the green future of all islands,” said Austin Shelton, Ph.D., Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and a Co-Principal Investigator for Guam NSF EPSCoR. “This year’s theme, ‘Solutions for our Future,’ highlights the importance of long-term solutions and the research and innovations that have been developed to address the challenges facing our islands.”

Enriquez also highlights the global reach of the conference and the implications it can have on Guam’s economic industries. She added, “we will be attracting foreign, international and national experts that will shed applied research or extension ideas that are applicable. This is not just for students. Our industries want to know what’s out there and what can help them to improve. What can help Islands be more sustainable?”

Individuals interested in presenting their research or projects at the conference are encouraged to submit their abstracts by February 14, 2025 at 5pm CHsT. Visit uog.edu/cis2025 today to submit your abstract, register and learn more about CIS2025.

Keynote speakers and presenters for CIS2025 will be announced soon with recent keynotes including Tetris entrepreneur and Blue Planet Alliance founder Henk Rogers, President of the Republic of Palau Surangel Whipps Jr., East-West Center president Suzanne Vares-Lum, and Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Arnold Palacios.

CIS2025 is presented by the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, The Office of the Governor of Guam, the Local2030 Islands Network, NSF SEAS Islands Alliance and Guam NSF EPSCoR.

November 15, 2024January 2, 2025

Guam NSF EPSCoR students shine at largest diversity conference in the country

University of Guam NSF EPSCoR student Yoonji Seo was one of many to present at the SACNAS National Diversity in STEM conference in Arizona. Seo and 22 other Tritons presented their research on the biggest stage of its kind in the country.

University of Guam (UOG) student researchers made a strong showing at the 2024 Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) Conference, held in Phoenix, Arizona; bringing together thousands of scientists, engineers, and students from across the nation.

48 UOG Tritons made their way to the conference, soaking up the science, meeting with recruiters and growing Guam’s footprint on one of the biggest STEM stages in the entire U.S.

A total of 22 UOG students presented their research findings on a variety of topics, including marine biology, environmental science, and engineering.

The students’ work was showcased through poster presentations, giving them the opportunity to engage with leading experts in their fields and network with potential collaborators.

Two students, Anna Lhyn Mallari and Nadley Yow, from the UOG delegation took home honors for their presentations and were recognized during an awards ceremony at the end of the week.

“It is a privilege to present my research and be recognized at a national conference like SACNAS. This award reflects the dedication and support of my mentors and colleagues, and I am proud to bring it back to the University of Guam and to the School of Engineering,” said Mallari. “SACNAS provides an invaluable opportunity for students from various disciplines to engage in research and learn from one another. I am truly grateful for this experience and hope it inspires more students to pursue research and bring their whole selves to the STEM field.”

The SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference is a premier event for Hispanic, Native American and islander STEM students and professionals. It provides a platform for sharing research, building community, and advancing diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.

Students’ trips and participation were paid for by several capacity building grants and supporters. They include the National Science Foundation (NSF) SEAS Islands Alliance (SEAS), NSF Navigating Home, the Sloan Foundation, and Guam NSF Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (Guam NSF EPSCoR). Travel scholarships were also awarded by SACNAS and the Research Corporation of the University of Guam.

Austin Shelton, Ph.D, director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & SG), principal investigator of SEAS and co-pi for Education Workforce and Development of Guam NSF EPSCoR sees the importance of students participating in the conference.

“Guam students often miss out on opportunities because of distance to national gatherings. Our UOG team has been extremely resourceful securing grant funding to put as many students as possible in front of these opportunities. Our students showed up to the National Diversity in STEM Conference and made us proud. They won competitive research awards and connected with top graduate schools like Stanford, Duke, MiT, ASU and more. They were offered research and scholarship opportunities and invited into incredible programs on the spot,” explained Shelton. “We’re excited for the future of our island as our students go on to receive advanced training and return home to solve our most pressing challenges.”

SACNAS presenters from UOG include:

Daissy Demei, SEAS
Deniena Fred, SEAS
Ale’a Duenas, SEAS
Lucey Mea, SEAS
Nadley Yow, SEAS
Thuy Nguyen, PIPCHE
Yoonji Seo, EPSCOR
Sean McManus, EPSCoR
Tristan Pajela
Cassandra Paule, PNNL
Ava-Rene Suba, SEAS
Ave Medina, EPSCoR
Mya Ngemae, EPSCoR
Daniel Urbano, EPSCoR
Makayla Dela Cruz, SEAS
Anna Mallari, SEAS
Cyril Concepcion, SEAS
Nicolas Nadeau
Joanna Rose Lauana, EPSCoR
Carlo Tapia, EPSCoR
Reina Evangelista
Gian Paras, PIPCHE

“We are incredibly proud of our students and their dedication to research,” said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA. “Their participation in SACNAS NDiSTEM demonstrates UOG’s commitment to fostering scientific inquiry and preparing the next generation of STEM leaders to take to the national stage.”

For more information on fellowships and undergraduate programs with NSF SEAS Islands Alliance, Guam NSF EPSCoR and UOG CIS & Sea Grant, follow the groups on social media @seasallianceguam, @guamepscor and @uogcis today.