AlbuquerqueAlbuquerque will host the 21st annual National American Indian Science & Engineering Fair (NAISEF), the only national American Indian science fair, March 27-29, 2008. The event will take place at the Albuquerque Convention Center.
 
Hosted by the American Indian Science & Engineering Society (AISES), the annual event brings more than 360 American Indian and Alaska Native students in grades 5-12 together annually to participate in a national Native American science fair. Unlike other science fairs, NAISEF includes a traditional project category, which is judged by volunteer Native American judges. Projects range from exploring the antibacterial properties of yucca to developing an economical radiation dispersal device sensor. NAISEF has played an important role in preparing the next generation of American Indian scientists and engineers, providing a vehicle for inspiring and fostering the development of research, learning, innovation, and scientific curiosity. 
 
The event is made possible through support of parents, teachers, advisors, judges and sponsors. “These students represent our future. They will be the ones running their tribe’s land conservation office, designing the next generation of space flight vehicles, researching cures for chronic health problems, overseeing or designing multi-million dollar infrastructure development on reservations and metropolitan areas, and advocating sustainable natural resources. Many will become industry leaders, government employees and leaders of their tribal nations,” said Pamala Silas, AISES Executive Director. 
 
As a sponsor of NAISEF, Intel’s generosity has helped to support the goals and visions of AISES in providing incentives and support to Native students as they further their dreams and efforts in pursuing educational opportunities. Jason Stiff, KOAT Action 7 News Meteorologist will be the Master of Ceremonies for the awards portion of the fair on Saturday, March 29th from 9am – noon at the Albuquerque Convention Center.  Grand Award winners are selected to attend the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) sponsored by Science Service, Inc. that takes place annually in May. Each year AISES representatives place in one or more of the ISEF competitions. Other sponsors include Lockheed Martin, 3M, and IBM.
 
AISES is a private, non-profit organization which seeks to substantially increase the representation of American Indian and Alaskan Natives in engineering, science and other related technology disciplines. AISES builds partnerships of support with tribes, schools, other nonprofit organizations, corporations, foundations, and government agencies to provide academic, financial, and cultural support to American Indians and Alaska natives from middle school through graduate school. Visit www.aises.org for more information.
 
PRESS CHECK IN REQUIRED: Go to the registration desk located in the West Lobby, Albuquerque Convention Center West Complex
 

PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES: 

FRIDAY, 3/27 Judging -- 9:30am – 12 Noon and 1:30 – 4:30 pm, NW Exhibit Hall

FRIDAY, 3/27 Open House -- 6 pm to 8 pm, NW Exhibit Hall (open to the public)

SATURDAY, 3/29  Awards Ceremony -- 9:00 am - 12 Noon, San MiguelJason Stiff, Master of Ceremonies