SACNAS is a society of scientists from all levels who are dedicated to promote diversity in STEM (Science/Technology/Engineering/Mathematics). SACNAS was founded in 1973 and is currently an organization with the largest multicultural and multidisciplinary STEM diversity in the nation. Our mission is achieved by encouraging and supporting undergraduate and graduate students to pursue and attain advanced degrees; by encouraging and supporting post-doctoral fellows and professionals to be involved in leadership positions; by informing and advocating for policies and federal funds that support the advancement of underrepresented minorities in STEM.

SACNAS understands that diverse voices are important in solving scientific challenges and impediments. Unfortunately, diversity in the STEM workforce and degree and leadership position attainment have not changed much in the last 40+ years. Therefore, more efforts are needed to improve STEM diversity. The strategic plans for achieving this effort include expanding and improving programs and services, strengthening member networks, broadening national presence and voice, investing in organizational capacity and infrastructure. At the regional levels, SACNAS chapters are dedicated to assist in promoting scientific and personal development of its members by organizing campus and community activities.

The goal of the SACNAS Chapters is to provide local support for professional development, mentorship, leadership, and outreach. It is a community where scientists at all levels come together to share our experiences as well as to mentor one another. We will host meetings regarding different areas such as networking and career development. We plan to invite speakers to talk about various topics and issues in STEM. Our chapter goals are to communicate and enhance the public understanding in science and to inspire students at all ages who come from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue advanced degrees, careers, and positions of leadership.

The meetings hosted by the SACNAS Chapter will cover a variety of subject areas ranging from career development, effective communication skills, networking, and time management, among other topics. Additionally, we will invite speakers who will discuss the challenges associated with mentoring students; applying for fellowships and postdoctoral positions; writing grants; etc. We will also have speakers from fields other than academia, such as industry and science policy, so that our members can learn about different career alternatives.

In addition, we will also be involved in scientific and humanitarian outreach. Our first outreach event was on Saturday, October 14th from 11am-3pm at the Fall Fest STEM Day hosted by the Boys and Girls Club. We showed kids how to make quicksand goo and extract DNA from strawberries.

UT Health San Antonio SACNAS Chapter is open to everyone. If you are interested in joining our chapter, please contact SACNASatUTHSCSA@gmail.com.