| History | Vision | Values
| History | Vision | Values
From Local Roots to a National Movement
In 2017, Paul Faronbi (above, right middle) and Queenster Bobit (above, right) launched a local LSAMP alumni group at Iowa State University with a simple goal: stay connected, give back, and help students thrive. What began as a campus-based effort has since grown into the IINSPIRE-LSAMP Alumni Committee, spanning institutions across Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska.
In 2019, Paul had a bold question: What if LSAMP alumni nationwide could unite? That conversation sparked a vision. In 2020, Paul joined forces with Nathalie Fuentes, Ph.D. and Lizeth Tamayo, Ph.D. to build the first national LSAMP alumni organization. Officially launched in October 2020, it expanded in 2021 as the National Association of LSAMP Alumni (NALA).
By 2022, NALA recognized that its mission extended beyond LSAMP alone. With strong leadership from the Executive Board and the support of now-CEO, Ana Chicas-Mosier, Ph.D., the organization opened its doors to all who are committed to advancing equity in STEM. That evolution gave rise to NALA(STEM), the National Alliance Leading the Acceleration of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
While our commitment to NSF LSAMP students and alumni remains unwavering, our community now welcomes everyone dedicated to creating opportunity, belonging, and success for historically excluded groups in STEM.
Together, we're building a future where STEM truly includes everyone.
Our Vision
To ensure that historically marginalized peoples in STEM are professionally prepared to assume leadership roles and advance their careers. We will promote inclusivity in industry, academia, and other STEM-oriented careers to create a brighter future for the next generation of alumni.
Our Values
Mentorship: We all need someone to help us through life
Research: Academia, Government, Industry and more, we’re passionate about learning
Service: Giving back to our alliances
Development: Investing in our own personal growth and development
Connection: Leveraging our networks to foster a community with respect for all people
Shared Value: Helping others while showing that our time is valued
NALA(STEM) has members across 40+ states in the United States and Puerto Rico. Members range from current graduate students, professors, industry professionals, and so much more!
SEE MAP OF WHERE OUR MEMBERS ARE CURRENTLY!
