The National Science & Technology Medals Foundation

We are deeply saddened to share that renowned mathematician Richard A. Tapia has passed away at the age of 87.

Tapia made legendary achievements in mathematics and computational science and was a fierce advocate for underrepresented groups in STEM. From 1970 until his passing, Tapia taught at Rice University, where he directed his namesake endeavor, the Tapia Center for Excellence and Equity in Education.

In 2011, Tapia was awarded the National Medal of Science, the highest award given to a scientist or engineer by the United States government, by former President Barack Obama for his pioneering, fundamental contributions to optimization theory and numerical analysis, seamlessly blending academic excellence with a lifelong commitment to diversity.

Tapia was dedicated to empowering the next generation of diverse scientists and engineers. His legacy will continue to inspire others for years to come.

We’re so proud of inSTEM alumna Charis Haynes getting into medical school! This achievement is truly remarkable and a testament to her hard work and determination. 🎊✨

Today’s inSTEM highlight features Charis Haynes, an inSTEM alumna from the inaugural HU-24 cohort. In addition to being an inSTEM alumna, Charis served as an inSTEM Program Associate at the NSTMF this past year and a half. She has been a great addition to our team, and we look forward to seeing her soar and achieve even greater feats.

Today we pause to remember, honor, and express gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice made by so many.

In observation of Memorial Day, the NSTMF office will be closed today and resume activities on Tuesday.

It’s time for May’s inSTEM Mini-Grant Conference Support Recap! ✨

This month, we supported Scholar Jessyann Perez, who attended the 2026 Big Design Conference!

It has been an incredible Spring semester, providing Mini-Grant Conference Support to our inSTEM Scholars and Alumni. We’ve loved helping our Scholars, and as we look ahead, our goal is to continue this support.

Help us empower the next generation of STEM leaders:
https://nationalmedals.org/donate/

Take some time this summer to connect with your local community and unwind! Choose one of these activities and have fun.

Connecting with others is vital for human well-being. Engaging with friends, family, or even acquaintances can lower stress levels and foster empathy! Do you have a different activity you'd like to do? Comment below!

Another chapter of inSTEM has been completed! 🎊

Reflecting on the amazing year we’ve had with inSTEM, we wanted to recall the various events we had. From the inSTEM Summit to orientation and graduation, there have been so many memorable moments this year that wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the community. We look forward to the next chapter of inSTEM and hope to continue being worthy advocates for STEM excellence.

Scholars, rest well and return ready to inspire and achieve even greater heights. Have a great summer!

We are excited to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month!

Throughout history, there have been many National Medal of Science and National Medal of Technology and Innovation Laureates who identify as Jewish American. By honoring their achievements, we celebrate a legacy of intellectual curiosity. Their contributions serve as a testament to the profound influence Jewish Americans have had on our nation's progress.

We’re always excited to welcome new mentors to the inSTEM program!

inSTEM mentors are instrumental to the program and serve as a figure of support to our Scholars for academic and personal advice. Thank you, Stacey York, for joining us and supporting the next generation of STEM leaders!

Apply to become an inSTEM mentor!
https://nationalmedals.typeform.com/to/GZ6iBHF8

Happy Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! 🌏

Today, we’re honoring the AAPI Laureates who have received the National Medal of Science and the National Medal of Technology and Innovation over the last 15 years.

STEM thrives when every voice is heard. Behind every breakthrough these trailblazers have achieved is a story of resilience and ingenuity worth telling. ✨

Congratulations, Howard University inSTEM grads!

This past Thursday, we had a great time celebrating our inSTEM Scholars from Howard University for their upcoming graduation. It has been a fulfilling experience watching our scholars grow over the past four years.

Scholars, we can’t wait to see what more you accomplish and we wish you luck on your future endeavors!

Graduating Scholars:
Abdulmujeeb Lawal
Adeoluwa Adekanmbi
Brent Piper
Chizaram Ike-lemuwa
Faithful Egharevba
Mildness Akomoize
Naresh Rawal
Olatomiwa Aniyikaye
Peace Taiwo
Rojal Sapkota
Syrr Gordon
Asia Richards
Biraj Dahal