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Gateway Scholars Motivational Program

Oral Session

Special Sessions

The Gateway Scholars Initiative was launched in 2010 by the Diversity in Agronomy, Crops, Soils and Environmental Sciences Committee previously the Minorities in Agronomy Committee (ACS 528), to meet committee's objective of improving participation by students and professionals from under-represented groups in the agricultural and environmental sciences. With full support of the ASA, CSSA and SSSA, the Gateway Scholars Initiative is designed to introduce high school students to the multitude of scientific disciplines that members of ASA, CSSA and SSSA are engaged in by inviting students and teachers from local high school(s) to attend the annual conference. Invited high school students and teachers have the opportunity to participate in major symposia and interact directly with scientists who are changing the world through research to meet challenges in global agriculture, food production, alternative energy and the environment. At the end of the program, leading researchers and educationists deliver motivational lectures to the students. This opportunity is used to conduct a survey to get feedback on students’ needs and interest and for further improvement of the Gateway Scholars program. For the 2013 Annual Meeting in Tampa, FL, the Diversity Committee would like to continue this trend and invite 10 students from each of 5 select high schools with a large population of under-represented to provide a unique experience to potential and future scientists and leaders of this nation.